Author Mitch Albom wrote a best-selling novella titled "The Five People You Will Meet In Heaven." It is centered around a man who believes his life is meaningless and that his life has not touched or affected the lives of others. He dies and goes to heaven, only to discover five people who had their lives enriched by some interaction with him.

The moral of the story is that each of us will at some time have a profound impact on others, whether we realize it or not. Our duty is to make sure that we influence their lives in a positive manner.

You can be absolutely certain that there are more than five people who have had their lives changed for the better by merely knowing Darryl Quick.

Nearly 2,000 family, friends and acquaintances turned out at Cheraw First Baptist on Sunday afternoon to say goodbye to the Sheriff's deputy and the man who touched the lives of so many.

"I almost feel like I've actually lost a son," said Chesterfield County Sheriff Sam Parker.

Although, he will be missed by many, the 42-year-old Quick will be missed the most by his wife and four children. As devoted as Quick was to his badge, he was more devoted to his family.

The family shared some of their emotions in words on the program for Sunday's homecoming service for their husband and father.

Darrell's son, D.J., wrote this about his father:

"My Dad, gone but not forgotten.

Giving and sharing is what he did best. You gave me so much encouragement. You took the time to listen and you always understood. I know you wanted to be here to see all my dreams come true, but you will always be with me in my heart. I love you, Dad."

D.J., you can take consolation in knowing that your father will not be forgotten. His spirit will live in the heart of every person he touched and every man or woman who wears a Chesterfield county sheriff's badge.

Thank you, Darrell, or a life well spent. You will be missed.