Video Of Fallen Round Rock Officer's Funeral Procession Made

ROUND ROCK, TX — Members of the Round Rock community, joined by representatives from dozens of other first responder agencies celebrated the life of Officer Charles Whites this week.

The fallen officer succumbed to injuries sustained Feb. 25 after being hit by a car while directing traffic around an accident scene. A Wednesday service at Shoreline Church in Austin was followed by full law enforcement honors, including a 21-gun salute, presenting of the flags, riderless horse, and bagpipes.

"In a particularly powerful gesture, Officer Whites’ call sign A-153 was retired from use by the Department by Chief Allen Banks via dispatch radio," city officials wrote. The service concluded with a police procession through downtown Round Rock to the funeral home.

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"It was a beautiful service highlighting the many virtues of Charles Whites – both the person and the officer," city officials said. "Family and friends spoke of his intellect and his love of the outdoors. Hal Sogin, Charles’ brother-in-law, told stories of Charles’ beat up old truck that he loved to drive even after it lost the ability to make left hand turns. RRPD Chaplain Jerry Lyle talked about the conversations they would have on patrol ride-alongs, listening to classical music and reminiscing of the vanishing Austin landmarks of their childhood."

His fellow officers vividly recalled the fallen officers distinctive mustache and penchant for aviator sunglasses. Officer Josh Chadney marveled at the late officer's attention to detail, including meticulous police reports, while Round Rock Police Chief Allen Banks spoke of Charles’ consistent level of preparedness — down to his wearing knee and elbow pads under his uniform.

Amid mourners' grief, bursts of laughter. One such moment of levity came when Officer Chris Wilson spoke of the time Whites leaped out of his patrol car after a fleeing suspect — but while the vehicle was still in drive. Officer Lynn Carmichael revealed that on the morning of Feb. 25, a passing motorist paused to record Whites after being impressed by his enthusiasm in directing traffic, his movements more akin to a well-choreographed dance than the robotic motions one typically associates with an officer directing traffic.

Tragically, the amateur photographer would later learn, like the rest of us, that Whites was struck by a vehicle later that same day.

The City of Round Rock produced a video of the funeral procession. The throngs of mourners seen attest to the impact the officer had on a community he long served and protected.

>>> Photo of officers honoring Charles Whites at his memorial service courtesy of City of Round Rock, top