TILTON, IL (Chambana Today) — A multi-agency escort honored former Tilton Police Chief Steven Cornett Thursday morning as a procession brought him home from Champaign to the Tilton area following his death earlier this week.

The Tilton Police Department, Tilton Fire Department, ambulance services, public works crews, and multiple surrounding police, fire, and EMS agencies participated in the escort, which left Champaign shortly after 10 a.m. Cornett’s current employer, Daniel Ribbe Trucking, also took part in the procession.

Community members lined portions of the route to pay their respects as emergency vehicles escorted Cornett back to the community he served for more than three decades.

Earlier Thursday, the Village of Tilton Police Department released a statement remembering Cornett’s long career and impact on the department.

“Chief Cornett dedicated more than three decades of service to the citizens and community of Tilton, serving from 1984 until his retirement in 2017,” the department said. “During his distinguished career, he served in many roles within the department, rising through the ranks from Patrolman to Lieutenant, Captain, and ultimately Chief of Police, serving as Chief from 2010 through 2017.”

The department described Cornett as a respected leader who devoted his life to public service and protecting others.

“Chief Cornett devoted his life to protecting others and serving this community with pride, professionalism, and unwavering dedication,” the statement read. “His leadership, knowledge, and commitment to the Village of Tilton left a lasting impact on this department and community that will never be forgotten.”

Tilton Police Captain Ryan Schull also reflected on Cornett’s influence as both a mentor and leader.

“Working directly with Chief Cornett at the start of my career, he left a tremendous impact on the way I police and serve the community today,” Schull said. “His guidance, leadership, and dedication to this profession helped shape not only officers within this department, but the department itself. I am proud to call him a friend and mentor.”

Officials said the large turnout from agencies and residents demonstrated the respect Cornett earned throughout central Illinois during his years of service.

“Today, we remember not only a former Chief, but also a respected officer, mentor, coworker, and friend,” the department said. “Rest easy, Chief Cornett. Thank you for your service, dedication, and commitment to the Village of Tilton.”