HOUSTON – Family, friends and the Houston Police Department gathered Monday to honor Senior Officer William “Bill” Jeffrey, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on Sept. 20, 2021.
“My dad would have done anything for Houston.He loved his city. He loved his job and he loved his team.He loved each and every one of his guys like a brother,” said Officer Jeffrey’s daughter, Lacie Jeffrey.
Thousands came to show their love and support. They stood together in salute as a wall of honor.
“He loved his friends and he loved them hard. He had a great sense of humor. A super hard worker, but his sense of humor was awesome,” said Paul Lowrey, and HPD Detective and Jeffrey’s childhood friend.
Officer Jeffrey’s family called him the best of the best. He was deeply dedicated to his profession, earning nearly 100 awards during his 31 years of service.
The Houston Police Department lost one of its finest.
“So many people have said, what can you do, what can we do, and some old some young, and the people who are too old to join a police department. Keep praying for us and be good witnesses,” said Houston Police Chief Troy Finner.
Jeffrey was fatally shot and HPD Sergeant Michael Vance was wounded while serving two felony warrants at an apartment complex at 5350 Aeropark Drive, police said. Officers said the suspect, who had opened fire upon the officers, was fatally shot by officers returning fire.
“Today, the city of Houston. All of us come together to say, Bill. Thank you for giving of yourself to the city, and to this family. We lift you, and may God undergird you every single day,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.
Following the funeral service, full police honors were rendered outside the church.