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JACKSON COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -

He had a passion to protect and serve people in life and he died doing what he loved. Tuesday, a funeral service was held in Jackson County for 27-year-old Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells. He was killed in the line of duty in Louisiana last week.

People from across the United States came to Wade Baptist Church to say their final goodbyes to a hometown hero. Wells grew up in a small community and went on to do big things, but never forgot where he came from.

"He was a man of dedication, of faith, a great love, and compassion," Director of the U.S. Marshals Stacia Hylton said.

"The love Josie Wells had for helping those in need was his calling," one family friend said.

"Josie will forever be in our hearts and we will forever be reminded of him. He has paid the ultimate price," said Wells' colleague.

The young deputy marshal had always dreamed of being in law enforcement, just like his father. He was living his dream until last week when he was shot and killed while serving a warrant to a double murder suspect.

"He knew well the risk involved in his work, but he did not hesitate to put his own life on the line in order to protect the country he loved," said U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder.

The nation's top law enforcement official was among the dignitaries who traveled to South Mississippi to attend Wells' funeral. As Holder stood over the flagged draped casket, he shared condolences from President and First Lady Obama. He also took time to praise the four year veteran for wearing the badge proudly.

"Remember this true American hero not for how he lost his life, but for how he lived it-with faith, with compassion, and with the joy that only those who truly give, truly give, can ever really experience. This was a good and decent man-an example to us all," said Holder.

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Thousands pay tribute to Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells in emotional homegoing service