A deputy’s family and his boss said he was a wonderful man who loved law enforcement.
Deputy Anthony Rakes, 31, was shot to death on Wednesday in Lebanon as he tried to help a man in a stranded car.
Today the community remembered him and his lifetime of service at his viewing at Bosley Funeral Home in Lebanon.
Earlier in the day, Rakes’ sisters and Sheriff Jimmy Clements talked about how they will remember Rakes.
“His smile,” Regina Ewing said. “He was never really outspoken much. He was just laid back and would listen.”
“Anthony was the same in uniform and out of uniform,” Anita Elder said. “He wouldn't treat you any different. That's just how wonderful he was. And he loved his job.”
Friends and family started lining up at the funeral home an hour before the viewing began. People spilled out of Bosley, onto the sidewalk and into the parking lot.
“He knew early on what he wanted to do in life and he did that,” Sheriff Jimmy Clements said. “He truly loved it. And I'm honored to have worked with him. Very honored to have worked with that young man.”
“I'm going to miss him coming around and spending time with my kids,” Ewing said. “He was a real good uncle and brother.”
“I just want to thank each and every person that has gone above and beyond,” Elder said. “Words just can't express what they have done. And we just want to thank everyone.”
