A funeral for Deputy William Franklin "Frank" James II was held at Apex Baptist Church. From the church, dozens of law enforcement vehicles led a procession to Gibsonville, more than 60 miles away, where James was laid to rest.
Tuesday, hundreds of people, including law enforcement officers from around the state, paid their respects at a visitation. James had a smile everyone appreciated, even his boss.
"It was a privilege to work with Deputy James. I only knew him for nine months, but his sheepish, witty smile he had would win anybody over," Sheriff Donnie Harrison said.
James, 33, died Friday night when he crashed into a car driven by a 17-year-old girl in Garner. He was responding to a domestic violence call. He is the first Wake County sheriff's deputy to die in the line of duty in 70 years.
"Frank James made the ultimate sacrifice. He was attempting to protect a life when his life was lost," said Capt. Kenneth Dodd, of the Wake County Sheriff's Office.
James leaves behind his wife April and his son Travis. Their pastor says he also leaves behind a great legacy.
"Frank served his community well. He served his church well, his family well and his Lord well," said the Rev. Myron Yandle.
The driver of the car, 17-year-old Jessica Lynn Anderson is in fair condition at WakeMed.
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