CALDWELL, Texas (KBTX) -Law enforcement officers, community leaders, and family gathered Thursday afternoon to honor the life and legacy of Burleson County Sheriff Gene Hermes.

Visitation was held at the Burleson County Cowboy Church, where friends and neighbors began saying their final goodbyes ahead of Friday morning’s funeral.

John Hermes, the sheriff’s brother, said Sheriff Hermes was drawn to public service from a young age.

“Even when we were younger, he was the guy who wanted to protect people,” John said. “He always did what was right—no matter what.”

Pastor Harvey Abke of Burleson County Cowboy Church described the sheriff as a man of faith, family, and dedication.

“He was an awesome guy who loved this community. He loved this county,” said Abke. “He would take the shirt off

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