MPD officer Tylers's funeral private, but procession route announced

 Private funeral arrangements for Madison Police officer Randy Tyler have been finalized by his family, Capt. Kevin Newman announced, as the route to the cemetery was made public so members of the public can pay respects.

Though Tyler’s family has asked that the ceremony and visitation be private and open only to law enforcement and first responders, Newman said the public is encouraged and invited to honor Chief Tyler by being present along the procession route to the cemetery, which was announced Wednesday afteroon.

Upon departing the Parkway Church in Madison, the procession will proceed southbound on Bozeman Road and upon crossing Highway 463 continue southbound on Highland Colony Parkway in Madison, MPD said.

The procession will continue southbound on the Highland Colony Parkway into the city of Ridgeland and upon entering the traffic circle at Old Agency Road, proceed east on Old Agency Road crossing Interstate 55 and proceeding eastbound on Jackson Street. 

The procession will turn northbound on Highway 51 and proceed into Madison turning into the main entrance of the Natchez Trace Cemetery at 759 Highway 51.

Citizens are encouraged to line the procession route, officials said.

Before the funeral on Friday, a visitation will be held at the Natchez Trace Funeral Home today (Thursday) from 4:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. for current and retired law enforcement officers, dignitaries, first responders (fire and EMS included) and their spouses.

The Celebration of Life private family service will be held at Parkway Church, 601 Reunion Parkway, Madison, on Friday at 2 p.m. for invited family, current and retired law enforcement officers, dignitaries, first responders and their spouses, officials said.