A solemn tribute echoed throughout Greensboro and the state of North Carolina as Sergeant Philip Dale Nix, fondly known as Dale, was laid to rest at Westover Church. More than a thousand individuals gathered to pay their respects to the 22-year veteran of the Greensboro Police Department, who tragically lost his life while off-duty, trying to stop a beer theft at a Sheetz gas station.
Nix, a dedicated public servant, spent a significant portion of his career in various roles, starting as a 911 dispatcher before joining the police force. His family has a long history of service, spanning 150 years, with Dale being the first to serve as an officer instead of a firefighter.
Chief Thompson lightened the somber atmosphere with a touch of humor, recalling how Nix would often claim credit for bringing doughnuts to family gatherings, jokingly saying, ”Firefighters need heroes, too.” The gathered mourners fondly remembered Nix’s infectious smile and his genuine concern for others.
Pastor Mike Carr, addressing the audience, emphasized Nix’s selfless spirit, envisioning him answering God’s call with a resolute, “Here I am Lord. Send me.” Carr urged everyone to embody the meaning of Nix’s last name, interpreting it as a call to “stop” violence, resonating with the community’s grief.
As a member of the Family Victim Unit, Nix worked closely with the Guilford County Family Justice Center, earning praise for his transformative impact on survivors. Center Director Catherine Johnson praised Nix for his dedication to helping those in need, calling him a hero and an unwavering advocate.
Detective Holliday reassured the congregation, addressing the confusion surrounding Nix’s tragic death and highlighting the presence of another off-duty officer, Cameron Peach, who providentially stood by Nix during his final moments. She emphasized that, in those critical seconds, Nix had a friend by his side.
The poignant ceremony culminated in the honor guard, once led by Nix, respectfully folding the flag from his casket. The tri-cornered flag passed through ceremonial hands, ultimately finding its place with Nix’s grieving widow, Kelly. The 21-gun salute and the procession to his final resting place underscored the collective grief of the community.
As Nix’s colleagues raised their hands in salute, the resounding shots served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made by this dedicated officer. In the aftermath, the sentiment expressed by Sonya Desai of the Family Justice Center lingered: ”It is now all of us against the world.” rnrn