Hundreds of people gathered Sunday to say goodbye to a Bell County Sheriff's deputy and his K-9 companion who both died during a police chase early Thursday morning.

Hundreds of officers from across the region came to pay tribute to Deputy Sean Pursifull. He's described as deeply devoted to his life as a deputy and as a good friend to those who needed him. He is also known for protecting people right up to the very end.

"Had that pursuit not stopped with Sean, it may have stopped with one of our children. If you asked Sean right now, he'd rather it would have stopped with him," said Rev. David Peters.

"This community has lost a really wonderful person and a caring spirit," said Sherry Cornett.

Deputy Sean Pursifull and his K-9 "King" were laid to rest side by side at a family cemetery in Bell County.

People from across the region gathered to honor Deputy Pursifull Sunday. One group says their mission is to show support to those who serve and Sunday, they showed their appreciation and respect for Deputy Pursifull.

They call themselves the Patriot Riders. Whether it's welcoming home a soldier or honoring a fallen hero, rain or shine, they'll be there. Tom Epperly remembers the appreciation he received when coming home from Iraq and now it's his turn to return the favor, this time to Deputy Sean Pursifull and his family.

"I think it gives them a tremendous amount of comfort, just to let them know that people out there care," Epperly said.

And in addition to the Riders and the human officers, most of the Knox County, Tennessee K-9 Unit also showed up to pay their respects to Deputy Pursifull and his K-9 companion King. No matter where they're from, for most of the officers, Deputy Pursiful's death truly hits home because they know, it could have been any one of them. It was Sunday's outpouring of support that lets every officer know that friends and even complete strangers are here to support them in the important job they do.

"In that profession, they keep all of us safe, and to show them some sort of tribute is very necessary," said Steve Verrigni with the Patriot Riders.

The Patriot Riders say they only show up if they're invited by friends or family. They also came to welcome home the Mountain Warriors this past fall.

WYMT's Jeff Allen attended the funeral. To watch his report, click the video link above.