Longtime Kent Mayor Jerry Fiala died last week from illness.

He served on the city council of Kent for 30 years, 16 of those years as Mayor. His dedication to the town runs deep in Kent as a lifelong local.

Lt. Mike Lewis from the Kent Police Department led the funeral procession on Monday past Davey Elementary, where students lined the street with their hands over their hearts.

“It was absolutely one of the greatest honors of my career to be a part of that procession, let alone lead the procession through the city,” Lewis said.

City leaders say he will be remembered for his dedication to public service.

Governor Mike DeWine authorized all flags in Kent to be flown at half-staff on Monday to honor his legacy at the request of Acting Mayor and Ward 2 councilman, Jack Amrhein.

KSTV’s Sydney Brown spoke to city officials about the legacy he leaves in Kent.

Sydney Brown is a Kent Stater TV Reporter. Contact her at [email protected].