The city of Meriden continues to honor the beloved crossing guard who was hit and killed while working last week.
It was at the busy intersection of Broad and Olive Streets in Meriden where crossing guard Dale Chavous was hit and killed while working.
Today, he was laid to rest and honored by the city.
“We just don’t know how many tomorrows that we have. Last Tuesday, Dale got up as always. Fully expecting to go through his day just as he had all other days,” Bill Bristol, the victim’s father-in-law, said.
Surrounded by family, friends, and city employees, Chavous’ daughters received American flags from the Meriden Police Department, honoring the service Chavous lost his life for.
He’s remembered for loving his family, community, crossing guard duties, and the New York Yankees.
“Those memories belong to Daddy, Papa, Dale, and only you. And that can never be taken away,” Bristol said.
This service comes after calling hours in Meriden yesterday, which brought hundreds in his honor, especially from the crossing guard community.
“He came right into the family, and he was family. He’s going to be missed,” Dean Smart, Meriden crossing guard coordinator, said.
Chavous got in touch with the Meriden crossing guard crew while walking his granddaughter to school.
“That’s how we met Dale. He watched us work, and he wanted to be a crossing guard,” Smart said.
Chavous loved being a crossing guard, and coordinator Dean Smart tells us Meriden loved him back.
“This is where he wanted to be. He said he was never leaving. And he left us too soon,” Smart said.
As Chavous’s family says goodbye, the city says this preventable loss should encourage people to drive with caution and respect.
“A plea to our public – not only offer your prayers and thoughts to the grieving family, but to slow down,” said Mayor Kevin Scarpati.
As for the driver who hit Chavous, we’re told they stayed on scene, but the city said the investigation is still ongoing.
