AMERICUS, Ga. -- The tributes and stories of bravery of the two officers killed in Americus keep pouring in, but there's one story that even more touching.
Officer Jody Smith, the Georgia Southwestern State University officer who lost his life protecting his community, is still saving lives even through his death.
Smith, who died next to best friend Nick Smarr while answering a domestic dispute call last week, chose to be an organ donor.
Smith’s father, Johnny, wrote on Facebook he couldn't be prouder.
“Jody not only is a brave hero in life, but he is a hero in death,” he wrote. “He may save as many as seven people's lives. My beloved son is still saving lives...No greater love has any man as to lay down his life for another.”
Johnny ends the post, with the touching words: “My son, you are still making me proud, you are my hero.”
On the Georgia Southwestern State University campus, students and faculty continued to mourn one of their own.
On Monday, the body of Smith was returned to the campus where he worked. Funeral services will be held here Wednesday in the Storm Dome.
With only a few minutes notice, dozens of people lined the streets of campus to welcome the procession carrying Smith's body.
Smith and his best friend, Americus Police Officer Nicholas Smarr, was killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call. The man accused of pulling the trigger, Minquell Lemrick, took his own life Thursday.
Others in the community have found peace in the final actions of Smith, and hope that his family will be able to do the same.
“I know nothing can replacetheir son but hopefully they can find peace,” said one of those gathered to pay their respects.
"Jody has given his organs to save someone else and it's just a hero after hero," said Cindy Corbin, a local resident.
The man who gave his life to protect this town will continue to save others.
Funeral Services for Smith will be held on the GSW campus Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Storm Dome.
