Words can’t describe how painful it is to lose a loved one. Although a stranger might not be able to take away that pain – a simple act of kindness is always appreciated. However, it’s not every day that one of these selfless acts is captured on camera.
But in the following story – that’s exactly what happened. As a funeral procession for a police officer, Capt. Paul Phillips went by, one UPS driver felt compelled to show a respectful gesture.
He pulled over and got out of his truck to stand while the funeral procession drove by.
Some people in the procession noticed what he did and took a photo of it. They were amazed at his kindness, and while he didn’t think anyone watching, the family members of the police officer noticed his gesture and appreciated it.
A woman named Haley Smith is the person who snapped the photograph and shared it with the world.
She wanted the UPS driver to see it and know that it meant a lot to the family and friends of the police officer. She wrote:
“While I was in a processional for a fallen officer here in Bartlett, TN, I saw this guy on the side of the road. @ups this guy showed amazing respect. Thank you stranger … The processional was for Captain Paul Phillips who faithfully served our community with the BARTLETT POLICE DEPARTMENT.”
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we notify the community of the passing of Captain Paul Phillips. Captain…
Posted by BARTLETT POLICE DEPARTMENT on Thursday, July 12, 2018
Her photos and post got a lot of comments on Facebook.
One person wrote:
“Thank you sir for your respect. Our fallen officers deserve the most respect.”
Another said:
“God Bless you sir. Respect is almost forgotten these days!!!”
https://www.facebook.com/bartlettpolicedepartment/photos/10165702029430232
The post was shared thousands of times.
Capt. Paul Phillips served the Bartlett Police Department for more than 25 years. The Bartlett Police Department posted a photo and some kind words about the officer, saying:
“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we notify the community of the passing of Captain Paul Phillips. Captain Phillips faithfully served our community with the Bartlett Police Department since January 1st, 1992. He passed away in the morning of July 11, 2018, at his home. Always joking and eager to make everyone laugh, Captain Phillips was loved by everyone who knew him. Please remember to keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
It’s clear that Phillips was very special to a lot of people.
He worked alongside many police officers in his career and helped make the community a better place. A fellow officer wrote:
“You were a friend and mentor to many, and your sense of humor was legendary among those who knew you. On behalf of your brothers and sisters in blue, we offer our love and sympathy to your family, friends, and loved ones…Rest easy, sir. We have the watch from here.”
While the UPS driver may not have known officer Phillips personally, he knew the officer deserved respect. The UPS driver was later identified as Aaron Smith, who also lives in Bartlett, Tennessee. He had heard about the passing of the officer, and when he saw the funeral going through, he knew it must be for the officer.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528058138403&set=pb.544043402.-2207520000..&type=3
Little did he know that his photo would become viral and the family would appreciate his gesture so much.
Hopefully, this story inspires others to show a little kindness to strangers – even if they think no one is watching. This UPS driver did just that and the photo continues to win hearts.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10106334277394215&set=p.10106334277394215&type=3
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
Source: Tribunist, Facebook – Haley Harris Smith
