Former Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy was honored Thursday morning at a service celebrating his life in Osceola, Arkansas. Family and friends gathered at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church to pay their respects to the Hall of Famer.

Kennedy died at age 48 on May 23.

“He epitomized the many great values this game teaches, which serves as inspiration to millions of fans,” Pro Football Hall of Fame President David Baker said of Kennedy.

Kennedy played all 11 of his seasons in the NFL with the Seahawks. He was selected to eight Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.

The family is asking for donations to Kennedy’s high school in lieu of flowers. Donations can be made to:

Rivercrest High School Athletic Club Attn: Mike Smith 1700 State Highway 14 Wilson, AR 72395