Law enforcement officers from across the Gulf south traveled to the Northshore Harbor Center to pay their respects and honor Slidell Police Officer Jason Seals.
Seals died over the weekend from injuries he received during an on-duty motorcycle crash nearly two months ago.
His pastor called Seals a real-life superhero.
“Something in the real world super heroes make the ultimate sacrifice as they serve and protect others. Jason did that,” Pastor Larry McElwen said.
Others talked about Seals’ as a good man devoted to service and God, a jokester and an enthusiastic hugger.
“Jason always greeted everyone with a smile and open arms. Whether you wanted one or not, you were getting a hug, maybe even a kiss,” Sgt. Richard Walden said.
“Jason, my friend, I wish I can tell you how sorry I am that I didn't accept every hug you wanted to give me...what I would do for a hug from him right now,” Slidell Police Chief Randy Fandal said.
Fandal admitted that it was impossible to describe his officer in just one word.
“Jason was a professional, loyal, devoted to God, family and service, fun loving, humorous, charismatic and silly. I could go on, but there's just not enough time,” he said.
35-year-old Seals was also a family man. He leaves behind a loving wife and three children. His daughter Lilianna brought the funeral to an emotional peak with her last dance for daddy.
James Bullington, Seals’ longtime friend from Slidell High School Class of 2001, said Jason will be missed.
“Just a great guy, great family man, does a lot of great things for this city. It's tough,” Bullington said.