""Even through the toughest times that we can bear, let her know, Lord, I'll always be there.''

This was Leon Bench's prayer for his young fiancee three years ago, and it was the prayer read to Mary Ann Bench again Saturday as funeral services were held for her slain husband.

Trooper Bench, 27, died Wednesday two hours after he was shot once in the head by a motorist.

Mary Ann Bench, 19 and a mother since July, was near collapse as she was escorted by two troopers through an honor guard at the front of the church.

He concluded the funeral with a prayer written by Bench for his wife on Nov. 12, 1980, titled ""A Lifetime Prayer'':

""Oh Lord, as you watch over me, give Mary Ann the light so that she might see.

""All my wants and all my cares, with her I want to share.

""Give her the love for paternity, tell her I want her through eternity.

""Even through the toughest times that we can bear, let her know, Lord, I'll always be there.

""With her eyes so big and bright, bless her Lord with her sight.

""Bless her for those stars above. Let her know, Lord, she will always be loved.

""Oh Lord, hear my plea, for if you must take one of us, oh Lord, let it be me. Because here on earth is where she needs to be.''

The trooper's hat, which rested on top of his casket, was handed to Mrs. Bench following the service, and she held it to her chest on the long drive from Sapulpa through Tulsa to her husband's hometown of Coweta in Wagoner County for the burial.

Trooper Bench was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man during a traffic stop on State Highway 97. After checking the man's driver's license he learned that the man was driving on a suspended license. As he attempted to make the arrest he suspect ran to his car and retrieved a pistol.

photo from Officer Down Memorial Page.