Author: Admin

With broken hearts and unfathomable grief, we share the devastating news of the passing of Virginia Larins Hollis, the beloved 8-year-old daughter of Lars Hollis, a cherished and respected member of our HP family. Virginia’s young life was tragically cut short when she was among those swept away during the catastrophic July 4th floods on the Guadalupe River in Central Texas.

There are no words strong enough or tender enough to ease the anguish of such a loss. Virginia was a radiant child—bright-eyed, joyful, compassionate, and full of the fearless curiosity that defines the spirit of childhood. Her laughter had a way of lighting up the room. Her kindness and empathy touched classmates, friends, teachers, and neighbors alike. Though only eight years old, Virginia made a lasting impression on everyone she encountered, and the world feels a little dimmer without her in it.

A Light Taken Far Too Soon

The floods of July 4th came swiftly and violently, leaving destruction in their wake and grief in the hearts of countless families. Virginia, along with others, was caught in the sudden surge of floodwaters while enjoying a family holiday in what should have been a day of joy and celebration. Despite tireless rescue efforts, she could not be saved. Her body was recovered in the days following, a moment that marked one of the darkest in our shared memory.

Remembering Virginia

Virginia loved art, nature, music, and her friends. She had an infectious energy, a deep love for animals, and a natural ability to care for others—traits that reflected the values her family lovingly instilled in her. Whether crafting handmade cards for her teachers or chasing butterflies in the garden, Virginia brought beauty and innocence into every space she entered.

As a daughter, she was the shining star of her father Lars’s life, a bond so deep it could be felt by all who knew them. The love and pride Lars held for Virginia was evident in every conversation, every photograph, and every story he shared. Their connection was profound, and her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.

Honoring Her Life

The HP family stands united in mourning with Lars and all who loved Virginia. In the coming days, we will share more about how we will celebrate her life and support her family during this unimaginably difficult time. Plans for a memorial service and ways to honor Virginia’s memory will be communicated as soon as they are finalized.

In the meantime, we ask that you continue to hold the Hollis family in your hearts and prayers. For those who wish to offer support, a fund has been established to help cover memorial costs and to provide resources for the family as they grieve.

In Grief, In Love, In Memory

We are left with sorrow too vast to measure, but also with the precious memories of a little girl who brought immense love and light to the world during her short time here. Virginia’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, in the values she embodied, and in the impact she made—no matter how young she was.

Rest gently, Virginia Larins Hollis. You were and will always be dearly loved.

 

A 52-year-old Texas man, Robert Herrera, has been arrested following ominous threats circulating on social media ahead of President Trump’s planned visit to Kerr County in Texas Hill Country. According to authorities, Herrera—who posted a photo of a rifle and a comment saying, “I won’t miss,” on Facebook—has been taken into custody and is now facing criminal charges related to his menacing statements.

Although law enforcement officials have not released all details, they have confirmed that Herrera was arrested this week in connection with his social media posts, which were discovered as part of security preparations surrounding Trump’s upcoming appearance. Federal and local authorities are currently reviewing the posts while assessing Herrera’s level of threat.

A Rising Security Concern

With the area still recovering from devastating flash flooding—where at least 95 lives were lost in Kerr County alone—the heightened tension surrounding the presidential trip has made incident responses even more critical  . In light of this backdrop, any threat made against a head of state is being treated with the utmost gravity.

What We Know So Far

• Subject: Robert Herrera, 52, Texas resident
• Social Media Statements: Included graphic imagery of a firearm and a caption warning, “I won’t miss.”
• Law Enforcement Action: Herrera was arrested and is now under scrutiny by federal investigators for making direct threats against the president.

National Security Protocols in Action

Protective agencies routinely monitor social media platforms for threats against public officials. Herrera’s arrest highlights the proactive measures employed to prevent violence before it can occur. While the precise charges have not been finalized, they may include serious federal offenses such as:

• Threats against the President
• Possession of firearms with intent to use
• Other potential weapons or trafficking violations

Public Response and Safety Measures

President Trump’s visit to Kerr County is expected to draw significant security presence, particularly in light of Herrera’s threatening posts and the region’s ongoing recovery efforts. Federal and local authorities have confirmed they’re coordinating closely to ensure everyone’s safety.

Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement. Maintaining community safety is a shared responsibility, particularly during high-profile events.

What Happens Next

Federal prosecutors are reviewing Herrera’s case, and additional charges may follow. If convicted, he could face substantial prison time, fines, and the loss of civil rights. Authorities have emphasized that threats toward public officials are treated with severe legal consequences.

As the investigation continues, officials affirm that every precaution is being taken to safeguard both the president and the public during the trip to Kerr County.

 

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the family of Kristiana Michelle Malveaux (Smith) announces her untimely passing on Friday, July 4, 2025. Kristiana was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin, and wife whose presence brought light, laughter, and love into the lives of all who knew her.

Her death has left a deep void in her family and community—a space once filled with her kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. Kristiana’s radiant smile, generous heart, and unmistakable warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She lived a life defined by compassion and purpose, and her legacy will be remembered with gratitude and love.

Those closest to Kristiana describe her as a deeply nurturing spirit—someone who always made time for others, who listened without judgment, and who gave of herself freely. She was a woman of faith, loyalty, and extraordinary grace, qualities that made her not only a cherished family member but also a source of comfort and strength for friends and loved ones.

Though her time on this earth was far too short, Kristiana’s impact was profound. Her passing has united those who loved her in shared grief, but also in reflection and celebration of the beautiful life she lived.

Details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days. The family invites all who were touched by Kristiana’s life to join them in honoring her memory.

As her loved ones continue to mourn, they also give thanks for the outpouring of support, prayers, and messages from the community. Kristiana will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rest in peace, Kristiana Michelle Malveaux. You are missed beyond measure, and loved beyond words.

CALIFORNIA — The immigrant and labor community is reeling with heartbreak and outrage following the tragic death of Jaime Garcia, who succumbed to his injuries after falling from a building during a recent ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raid at Glass House Farms, a cannabis cultivation facility in California.

According to eyewitness reports and early details released by advocacy organizations, Jaime was among several workers present when federal agents entered the premises. In a moment of chaos and fear, Jaime reportedly attempted to flee, ultimately falling from a height that caused critical injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he passed away from his injuries, leaving behind a devastated family, shocked coworkers, and a community demanding answers.

A Life Lost in Fear

Jaime Garcia’s death is more than a tragic accident—it is a devastating consequence of immigration enforcement tactics that leave workers terrified and vulnerable. Friends and advocates describe Jaime as a hardworking man, quiet and kind, who came to the U.S. in search of opportunity and stability. He had been working at Glass House Farms to support his family, striving for a better future despite the uncertainty that clouded his legal status.

“He wasn’t a criminal,” said one coworker who asked to remain anonymous. “He was just trying to work and live like everyone else. He didn’t deserve to die this way.”

Jaime’s death underscores a painful truth felt by many undocumented workers: that even routine days can turn fatal when immigration enforcement is involved.

A Tragedy That Raises Questions

The circumstances of the raid—how it was conducted, whether proper protocol was followed, and how workers were treated—are now being closely examined by immigrant rights groups, labor advocates, and legal experts. They are calling for a full investigation into the raid and the conditions that led to Jaime’s fatal fall.

“There is a climate of fear being created in workplaces across the country,” said a spokesperson from a local immigration coalition. “When workers feel like their lives are at risk just by showing up to do a job, we must question the human cost of these enforcement strategies.”

Mourning and Mobilizing

Jaime’s loved ones are grieving deeply, now forced to plan a funeral they never imagined. Friends have launched efforts to raise funds for funeral expenses and to provide support for his family, both in the U.S. and abroad. Community vigils and protests are being planned to honor his life and to shine a light on the broader issue of immigrant safety and worker protections.

His death has become a rallying cry for many who believe the system must be reformed—calling not just for compassion, but for accountability and structural change in how immigration enforcement is carried out.

Remembering Jaime

Jaime Garcia is not just another statistic or a fleeting headline. He was a son, a friend, a laborer, and a man with dreams and dignity. Those who knew him remember a gentle spirit who worked long hours without complaint and always tried to help others where he could. His life mattered.

In his memory, the community renews its commitment to justice—for Jaime and for all those caught in the crosshairs of immigration enforcement while simply trying to survive.

A Call to Action

Advocates are urging elected officials, ICE leadership, and workplace regulators to re-evaluate enforcement protocols, particularly when raids occur at work sites. They are also calling for greater legal protections for undocumented workers, and more humane alternatives to aggressive immigration tactics that put lives at risk.

Rest in peace, Jaime Garcia.

You were more than your papers. You were human. You were loved. And you will not be forgotten.

This morning, a  Union family was struck by another heartbreaking tragedy. With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we share the devastating news that we have lost another one of our own—a brother, a colleague, a dedicated worker, and a valued member of our labor community.joe Cunningham has tragically passed away, marking the second fatality within just six weeks among our ranks. The pain of this loss is almost too much to bear, and it echoes deeply through the hearts of all who knew and worked alongside him.

Our union is more than a workforce—it is a family. When we lose one of our own, we do not just mourn the absence of a coworker—we grieve a life taken too soon, a future cut short, and a brother whose boots will never again walk among us on the job site. We honor Brother Cunningham today for his hard work, his loyalty, his quiet strength, and the commitment he brought to his craft every single day.

A Growing Burden of Grief

This marks the second death in six weeks—a pattern that weighs heavily on our union halls and job sites. These are not just numbers. These are men with families, with dreams, with years of experience and passion for the work they did with pride.

To say our hearts are broken would be an understatement. We are devastated. And we are angry. Because no one should go to work and not return home.

Leaders Stand with Us

In our time of grief, we have been moved by the outpouring of condolences and support from community leaders who understand the depth of this tragedy and stand in solidarity with our union family.

We have received calls and messages of support from:

• Senator Bernie Moreno,
• Congresswoman Shontel Brown,
• Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb,
• County Executive Chris Ronayne, and
• County Council President Dale Miller.

Their words remind us that our loss is felt not only by fellow union brothers and sisters but by the larger community we serve. They have pledged their support and offered their assistance as we work through the grief, begin the healing process, and recommit ourselves to safety and accountability for all.

Honoring Brother Cunningham

To Brother Cunningham’s family—we extend our deepest condolences. We know there are no words that can ease your pain, but please know that you do not carry this burden alone. Your grief is shared by thousands of union brothers and sisters who are committed to honoring his memory and supporting his loved ones through this incredibly difficult time.

He was more than just a tradesman. He was a mentor, a provider, a friend. His contributions to the job and to the brotherhood will never be forgotten.

In Solidarity, We Move Forward

As we mourn, we also reflect—and we demand more. More safety. More accountability. More urgency to protect the lives of those who build, repair, and maintain the very infrastructure that keeps our communities going.

Let the memory of Brother Cunningham and the others we’ve lost not fade quietly. Let it ignite change, inspire unity, and remind us all of what’s truly at stake every time one of our own puts on their gear and reports for duty.

We thank all who have stood by us during this time. Your prayers, your messages, your calls—they matter. They show us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.

Rest in Peace, Brother Cunningham

Your legacy lives on in the work you’ve done, the lives you touched, and the bond that unites all of us.

We will carry your memory forward with strength, pride, and an unbreakable commitment to protect and honor all who wear this badge of labor.

 

The Central Vermont community is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of one of its most cherished souls, Jean Newberry—a devoted mother, compassionate caregiver, wise educator, and beloved friend. Jean’s passing has left a void so deep, it echoes through homes, classrooms, and hearts across the region.

Jean was reported missing on July 5th, and after two harrowing days of search and prayer, she was found deceased on a local trail. The shock of her sudden death has shaken all who knew her—and many who may have only known her by her warm smile or the gentle energy she brought into a room.

This loss is not just personal—it is communal.

A Life Devoted to Care and Compassion

Jean Newberry lived a life defined by service, kindness, and connection. As an early childhood educator, nanny, and parent educator, she shaped the lives of countless children and their families, nurturing not only young minds but the hearts of overwhelmed, grateful parents.

Many first met Jean when she worked with Good Beginnings of Central Vermont, offering parent education and postnatal support with grace and empathy. Others remember her tender presence as a nanny, quietly guiding little ones through their earliest days with a sense of patience and love that is rare and irreplaceable.

From 2016 to 2021, Jean served as a deeply valued member of the staff at the Sweet Clover Nursery at Orchard Valley Waldorf School, where she held space for wonder, growth, and gentleness. Her ability to speak to children in the language of imagination and comfort left an indelible mark on the lives of so many young families.

Jean didn’t just work in these spaces—she blessed them. Whether she was rocking a newborn, kneeling to comfort a toddler, or listening intently to a struggling parent, Jean made people feel seen, supported, and safe.

A Mother’s Light

To speak of Jean is to speak of her deep and tender love for her son, Mliki. Some in the community first saw her with him—an infant in her arms—while she worked at Tulsi Tea Room in Montpelier, greeting guests with a luminous smile and quiet joy. Jean’s love for Mliki was her anchor, her pride, her purpose.

Those who knew her well speak often of the powerful connection between Jean and her son. It was radiant, as if the love between them was its own gentle language. Jean parented with presence, reverence, and grace—offering Mliki a world where empathy and curiosity thrived.

A Call to Support

In the wake of this devastating tragedy, the community is coming together not only in grief, but in love and action. A fund is being organized to help support Mliki’s future, and to assist with the unexpected costs surrounding Jean’s passing.

This is an opportunity for those whose lives were touched by Jean’s work, her warmth, or her presence to give back in a meaningful way—to ensure that her legacy lives on through her son, and that her family is supported in this unthinkable time of loss.

If you are able, please consider contributing. Your donation—no matter the size—is a tribute to Jean’s legacy of care, and a tangible act of solidarity with a community mourning a sister, a guide, a mother, a friend.

Holding Each Other Close

Jean Newberry was more than the roles she held—she was a beacon of gentleness, a teacher of love, and a friend to so many. Her absence is deeply felt, but her spirit lives on in every child she held, every parent she comforted, and every life she so quietly and beautifully touched.

Let us honor her memory by holding one another tenderly, by continuing her work of nurturing others, and by ensuring that her son grows up surrounded by the same loving community that his mother so fiercely believed in.

Rest in peace, dear Jean. Your light lives on.

 

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Boys’ Soccer Coach, Sixto Gonzalez. For nearly 20 years, Coach Sixto was more than just a figure on the sidelines at Aquinas High School—he was a mentor, a leader, a role model, and a steadfast source of inspiration to generations of student-athletes.

His sudden passing has left our school community reeling with grief. The loss is immeasurable, and the void left behind is deeply felt by students, faculty, alumni, and families alike.

A Life Dedicated to His Players

Coach Sixto was a man of unwavering dedication, humility, and tireless passion. On the field, he was fiercely committed to developing competitive athletes. Off the field, he was equally invested in molding strong, compassionate, and principled young people. His coaching philosophy was never just about winning—it was about character, teamwork, resilience, and faith.

Over the span of nearly two decades, Coach Sixto shaped the futures of hundreds of players. He taught them not only how to pass, score, and defend—but how to lead with integrity, how to show respect in both victory and defeat, and how to carry themselves with humility and courage in all aspects of life.

His impact was not confined to practices and games. He was a mentor in every sense—offering guidance during difficult times, celebrating personal victories, and always making himself available to lend an ear or a word of wisdom.

More Than a Coach

To many, Coach Sixto was more than just a soccer coach—he was family. He attended baptisms, graduations, weddings, and funerals. He showed up for his players in ways that reached far beyond the final whistle. His deep Catholic faith grounded his work, and his presence in the Aquinas community was a living example of service, compassion, and love in action.

Faculty and staff recall his warm smile, his calming presence, and his quiet leadership. Students admired his ability to command respect while remaining approachable, understanding, and full of heart. Parents trusted him implicitly, knowing their children were being guided by someone who truly cared about their well-being and future.

A Profound Loss

The suddenness of his departure has left our community stunned. The grief is raw. But through the tears, we are reminded of just how many lives Coach Sixto touched, and how deeply his spirit will live on in the halls of Aquinas High School—and in the hearts of everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Honoring His Legacy

In the coming days, the school will be organizing a memorial service to honor Coach Sixto’s life and legacy. Details will be shared with the community as plans are finalized. We invite all current and former students, families, staff, and friends to join us in celebrating the incredible life of a man who gave so much of himself to all of us.

In his memory, we recommit ourselves to the values he championed: faith, perseverance, unity, and unconditional support for one another. His whistle may be silent now, but his lessons will echo for generations.

Rest in peace, Coach Sixto Gonzalez.

You were the heart of our team, the soul of our program, and the embodiment of everything good in sport and in life. Your legacy will never fade.

 

It is with heavy hearts and shattered spirits that we share the devastating news of the passing of our beloved Alexzander Drake Bernhardt, who was tragically taken from us on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025, at the tender age of 19. Words fail to capture the depth of this loss, the sorrow it has brought to his  family, and the emptiness left behind in the space where his vibrant spirit once shined so brightly.

Alex—as he was lovingly known—was full of life, fun-loving, and free-spirited. He was the kind of young man who could walk into a room and instantly make people feel at ease. His laugh was infectious, his smile genuine, and his heart pure. Whether he was spending time with friends, talking to strangers, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with family, Alex brought light wherever he went. He had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and loved.

To know him was to love him—and that love now turns into grief, felt deeply by every soul he touched.

He was a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a cousin, and a friend. He wore all those titles with pride, offering unconditional love and laughter to each person fortunate enough to cross paths with him. He had big dreams, a curious heart, and a boundless zest for life—dreams that were cut short far too soon.

A Grieving Family, A Community in Mourning

The pain of losing Alex has shaken our family to its core. The future we had envisioned with him—full of birthdays, milestones, laughter, and new adventures—is now a dream we must carry in memory. In these darkest days, as we begin to face life without him, we are also faced with the difficult task of laying him to rest—a responsibility that no parent, no sibling, no grandparent should ever have to bear for someone so young.

A Call for Support

In honor of Alex’s beautiful life and to ensure he receives the farewell he deserves, we are turning to our community for support. Instead of creating a traditional online fundraiser, we have chosen a direct and transparent method of giving that allows 100% of your donation to go directly to his family.

We have opened a dedicated funeral fund in his name at:

Anstaff Bank

Green Forest, Arkansas

Account Name: Alexzander Bernhardt

If you feel moved to support us during this time, please consider donating directly to this account. Unlike online platforms like GoFundMe, which take a percentage of the funds raised, this method ensures that every single penny you donate will be used to help cover the costs of Alex’s funeral and memorial services, without any deductions.

You can visit Anstaff Bank in person or contact them for further instructions on how to contribute to the Alexzander Bernhardt Funeral Fund.

A Community That Lifts Us Up

To everyone who has shared a kind word, sent a prayer, or offered a gesture of love, we thank you from the depths of our hearts. We see your Facebook comments, we feel your compassion, and we are forever grateful for the strength and comfort you have given us. In moments of unspeakable heartbreak, it is the unity and kindness of this community that gives us the courage to keep moving forward.

A Life Remembered

Alex, you were so much more than your final day. You were a spark, a storm, a soul that couldn’t be contained. Your memory will live in the stories we share, the tears we shed, and the laughter we still hear echoing in our minds. You will be with us in every sunrise, in every moment of silence, and in every heartbeat of those who loved you.

We love you endlessly. We miss you fiercely. And we will carry your memory with us, always.

Rest easy, Alexzander Drake Bernhardt.

You will never be forgotten.

 

It is with shattered hearts that we remember and honor the life of Paige Bell, a vibrant, courageous, and radiant young woman whose life was tragically stolen far too soon. On July 3, 2025, just days before what would have been her 21st birthday, Paige was brutally murdered aboard the superyacht ‘Far From It,’ docked at Harbour Island in the Bahamas.

At just 20 years old, Paige had already achieved what many only dream of—breaking into the competitive world of luxury yachting as a proud South African woman. She was chasing her dreams across the open sea, carving out a path for herself in an industry that demands resilience, professionalism, and strength. And Paige had all of it. She was admired by her peers, adored by her friends, and respected by those she worked with.

Her crew had been planning a celebration—a joyous tribute to her upcoming milestone birthday. Instead, they found themselves in unimaginable grief, mourning the loss of a colleague who had become family.

A Safe Place Turned Scene of Violence

Paige was discovered in the engine room of the yacht, her body bearing the unmistakable signs of a violent struggle. The man accused of ending her life is believed to be a fellow crew member, an engineer—someone she worked alongside, someone she likely trusted. It is a betrayal not just of friendship or professional camaraderie, but of the most basic right we all deserve: to feel safe where we live and work.

This attack did not happen in the dark shadows or an abandoned alley. It happened on board a luxury vessel, in broad daylight, with other crew members nearby. Paige was doing her job, living her dream, and she lost her life in a space that was supposed to be safe.

This horrifying reality raises a painful, urgent question:

Where in the world can women truly feel safe?

Is it on the street? At home? In the workplace? On a boat surrounded by colleagues?

The answer remains devastatingly unclear. What is clear is this: We must do better. We cannot allow Paige’s death to be one of many that fades quietly into a statistic. We cannot normalize this. We must not look away.

A Life of Light and Purpose

Paige Bell was so much more than what happened to her. She was a bright light—bold, spirited, and endlessly kind. She lived with joy, she laughed without hesitation, and she touched the lives of everyone lucky enough to know her.

Her family, friends, and crewmates describe her as someone with a boundless zest for life, someone who brought laughter to difficult days and compassion to every corner of her world. She was fiercely independent, yet deeply connected to those she loved.

In her short time on this Earth, Paige made a lasting impact. She was a daughter, a friend, a dreamer, and a fighter. Her presence was a gift, and her absence is a loss that reverberates across oceans.

Standing in Solidarity

To Paige’s heartbroken parents, to her friends and fellow crew, and to all who knew and loved her: please know that you do not grieve alone. The world is watching, mourning, and demanding justice on your behalf. Your pain is felt deeply, and your loss is shared by countless people around the globe who see themselves, their sisters, their daughters, in Paige’s story.

We stand with you. We cry with you. And we will remember her.

Rest in Power, Paige Bell

Paige, we honor not just the tragic end of your journey, but the radiant life you lived so fiercely. Your legacy is not defined by violence, but by the beauty you brought into the world.

You were full of promise, full of light. And though you are no longer here, your spirit endures—in waves, in wind, in the hearts of all who will never forget you.

Rest in power, Paige. We will not forget. We will not stop speaking your name. We will fight for a world where no woman has to fear what you faced.

With broken hearts and deep reverence, we ask that you continue to hold the family, friends, and colleagues of Firemedic Brittany Zerwick in your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the sudden and tragic loss of a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to saving others.

Brittany Zerwick’s passing has left an immense void in our hearts and in the fabric of the first responder community. She was more than just a firemedic—she was a protector, a caregiver, a friend, a daughter, and a shining example of courage under pressure. Her death is a tragedy that has shaken all who knew her and is being felt far beyond her station walls.

A funeral service to honor Brittany’s life and legacy will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Cascade Hills Church. The ceremony will be open to the public, allowing fellow firefighters, EMTs, medical professionals, and members of the community to come together and pay their respects to someone who gave so much of herself in service to others.

A Life of Purpose and Passion

Brittany Zerwick answered the call to serve without hesitation. Every shift she worked, every emergency she responded to, every patient she treated—she did it with compassion, skill, and a deep sense of duty. Her colleagues describe her as fearless and dependable, someone who never backed down from a challenge and never failed to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.

She was a bright light on even the darkest days, known for her infectious smile and calm presence in moments of crisis. Whether it was a medical emergency or a fire call, Brittany brought both technical expertise and emotional reassurance to those in need.

In and out of uniform, Brittany was deeply loved. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter brought joy, and her kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her or call her a friend.

A Community in Mourning

The news of Brittany’s passing has sent ripples through the fire service and beyond. Tributes from across the state and country have poured in—fellow medics, firefighters, and agencies all sharing in the grief and lifting up her memory. Flags are being flown at half-staff, badge shrouds are being worn, and stations are honoring her service with moments of silence and last call ceremonies.

While we mourn, we also remember the immense bravery and humanity Brittany brought to her work and her life. She died a hero, just as she lived—with heart, honor, and purpose.

Final Farewell

As we gather at Cascade Hills Church on Monday, we will not only grieve the loss of Brittany Zerwick but also celebrate her life, her sacrifice, and the profound impact she had on everyone she encountered. It will be a time of shared sorrow, but also a powerful reminder of the strength of our fire and EMS family.

We ask that everyone who knew her, worked with her, or was touched by her service continue to lift her family in prayer and keep her spirit alive through kindness, service, and dedication to others—values Brittany embodied every day.

Rest in Peace, Firemedic Zerwick

Your watch has ended, but your legacy will never fade.

You gave everything—your time, your strength, your heart—to protect others.

Now, may you find peace in eternal rest, knowing you were deeply loved and will never be forgotten.