Coverage of funeral services for Sgt. Tim Chapin

photo Cover of program from funeral service at Abba's House for Sgt. Tim Chapin.

Chattanooga Police Chief Bobby Dodd fought back the tears as he spoke today at the memorial service for Sgt. Tim Chapin, the officer who was shot and killed while responding to a robbery on Saturday.

"His dent has created a great void in our lives, our community and our department," Dodd said, standing in front on hundreds of mourners who filled the seats at Abba's House Central Baptist Church on Hixson Pike.

Dodd was joined at the podium by Dr. Ron Phillips and Pastor Chris Brooks, who eulogized Sgt. Chapin and honored his life as a police officer, a parishioner and a friend.

Brooks asked mourners to remember Sgt. Chapin's words and share them with each other.

"Remember the stories, the memories, the good times," he said. "Come together with one another, remember how awesome this man was... how awesome it was to be in his presence."

As he stood above the flag-drapped coffin before the stage, Phillips reminded mourners of Sgt. Chapin's sacrifice.

"Tim didn't lose his life, he gave his life. He didn't have to be out there, he chose to be there. He gave his life for this community - make no mistake about it.

"Death is not the end. Tim is a conqueror and not a victim," he said.

After the service ended to bagpipes playing "Amazing Grace," a walking funeral procession proceeded from the church to the cemetery. Sgt. Chapin will be buried at Hamilton Memorial Gardens on Highway 153.

photo Motorists on Hixson Pike pass by signs paying tribute to Sgt. Tim Chapin near Northgate Mall Thursday morning. Staff photo by Jake Daniels/Chattanooga Times Free Press
photo Officers assemble at Abba's House Baptist Church Thursday in preparation for the afternoon funeral processional for the late Sgt. Tim Chapin. Staff photo by Dan Henry/Chattanooga Times Free Press
photo Program for funeral service at Abba's House for Sgt. Tim Chapin

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