More than 100 people from across El Paso, the state of Texas, and the country honored late El Paso Police Chief Greg Allen at the convention center Thursday.
Law enforcement officers, family members, friends, and other El Pasoans filled a large room where they paid their respects to Allen.
A friend of Allen's said she wanted to be there for his wife.
“I have had the distinct pleasure of knowing Chief Allen and Rosanne for over 27 years," said Mary Ellen Lindemann, a friend of the chief. “Being here is a personal issue for me because we wanted to be here for Rosanne and to say goodbye to Chief Allen."
Allen passed away on Jan. 17 and served the police department for more than 40 years.
Allen was El Paso's longest-serving chief as he guided the community for 15 years.
People said the impact he had went beyond the department and the City of El Paso.
“He was a good man, and he was a good chief. He was always there to help people and that’s what I like about him," said Marsha Modkins.
“He helped to spread what his idea of a police department and how a police department should be run to many parts of the country, not just the state, but in Washington as well," said Lindenmann.
People were touched by the overflow of people who showed up to share their last goodbyes but were not surprised by the turnout.
They said it was a testament to the man he was.
“It’s amazing, I mean, it shows the gravity of the impact he’s had on everybody’s life," said Gina Torrez.
“I’m glad everyone came out to see him," said Modkins.
They all shared a last message with the chief.
“He was an extraordinary man, and he holds a piece of our heart," said Torres.
“Thank you and you will not be forgotten," said Lindemann.
Condolences for Allen's family can be submitted here.
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