A Final Goodbye to Chief Graham

ATLANTA - Members of the metro Atlanta law enforcement community created a sea of blue and black on Saturday to pay their final respects to former DeKalb County Police Chief Louis Graham.

Graham had a celebrated 40-plus year career in law enforcement and was considered a pioneer. Mouers remembered him as the first African-American to head Atlanta police's homicide detective squad.

While working on the Fulton County Police Department, Graham was credited with solving dozens of cases. It was a badge of honor that led him to hold the badge of the top cop in the county. His colleagues said he always led by example.

"He was strong but he was compassionate. Full of passion for people," said Chief Cassandra Jones of the Fulton County Police Department during the ceremony.

After a short retirement, Graham was back in uniform, this time in DeKalb County. He again rose through the ranks to become the chief of police. Friends said he provided a path for others to walk.

"The progress of a man is someone who leaves a legacy with other to progress," said Sheriff Tom Brown of the Dekalb County Sheriff Department.

Family members remembered a man who was funny with an appetite for a good meal.

"My Dad taught me to appreciate the artistry of a well-constructed sandwich. That's the Dad I know," said his daughter Karen Graham.

She also remembered him as someone who commanded and gave respect.

"My Dad taught me to respect everyone from the janitor to the chief executive," said Karen Graham.

When Chief Graham stepped down, he told Fox5's Dale Russell what he wants people to take away from his four decades in law enforcement.

"One thing I have, that I will take with me to my grave and that is my character."