This past Friday, one of the Captains at work, Laney Morriss, passed away after a three year bout with cancer. Laney was young. She was only 47. Even though we knew it was going to happen, it still hit us hard.
She and Steve were best of friends. They worked together for several years in the training division and have stayed close over the years after that. Several years ago, Laney was my Lt. in the front office. Currently, Laney was the Captain over the Criminal Investigation Division (Steve's division).
Laney had an infectious smile and a zeal for life like no one else I know. She LOVED being outdoors, whether it be camping, running, hiking, canoeing....you name it-she LOVED it and was doing it. She loved her job and she took such pride in being a Police Officer. She was the first female in the Springdale Police Department to attain the rank of Captain. I don't know of anyone that we work with, that didn't love her.
Laney fought the cancer with all she had. She lasted way longer than any Dr thought she would. And she maintained her awesome spirit throughout the whole ordeal.
Today was the funeral.
It was an EXCELLENT tribute to Laney. We laughed; We cried; We reminisced. My favorite quote out of the whole thing was when her brother, Trey spoke and said "We know Laney is in heaven, but I'd be willing to bet that she's down at the gates of Purgatory redirecting traffic." Anyone that knows Laney.....knows how true that statement is!
Here is a picture of the procession to the cemetery. The picture though, doesn't do the procession justice. Holy cow, there were TONS of Police cars along with a fire truck or two. It was so amazing to see all the cars together. It was humbling to see people move over to the side of the road, get out of their cars and salute or simply just stop what they were doing to watch it go by. I just can't put into words. There is not a doubt in my mind, that though Laney wouldn't have wanted us to make such a "fuss" over her, she was also very proud today at the people who came out and supported her family and each other.
Our guys had to wear their "Class A" uniforms today. "Class A's" are their nicest uniforms-long sleeve, tie, all brass, pins, stripes and badge on the shirt. Shoes have to be in tip top, shining shape for "Class A's". They had a black "mourning" strip over their badges. I wish there was a way I could have gotten a picture of all our guys together. I hate that they had to wear their "Class A's" for a funeral, but man, they all look SO GOOD in them! It was neat.
Because of Laney being a Police Officer herself, all Law Enforcement officers (from our agency along with all the other that were there) met on one side of the auditorium and filed in together. As spouse's and civilian employees, we also walked in with the guys. I of course walked in with Steve.
Again-I wish I had a picture of us all together. The show of solidarity among all the Officers there was so neat. I was very proud to be apart of it.
What a day. I think we're all worn out from all the adrenaline and emotion of the day. I know I'm ready for bed and it's not even 8:00!
Rest in peace, Laney Lou. We're gonna miss you! Save a seat for me!
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