Susan “Suzie” Smith Honored After Tragic Helicopter Crash
It’s a sad fact of life that daily, news arrives about influential stars, actors, and even children passing away. But it seems saddest of all when those who serve others, like Susan “Suzie” Smith, die. This week, the community in North Carolina honored her passing after she died in a helicopter crash in Sacramento.
Suzie Wasn’t Famous
A nurse who worked for REACH Air Medical Services, Susan “Suzie” Smith dedicated five decades to nursing. While many people now know that she had a family, not much is known about them. Her husband, RJ Smith, confirmed her passing in a social media post cited by KCRA.com.
He said, “Even in death as an organ donor she will help someone else live on.” He added, “The hospital did the heroes walk for her. Hundreds of people lined the hallways as they took her to the operating room.”
Community Honors
Susan “Suzie” Smith might not have been famous during her life, but clearly, as many media videos show, she’s famous right now for choosing to help so many people in her lifetime. As the news intensifies, more emerges about her selfless dedication. Colleagues described her as mentoring and volunteering for extra shifts.
Meanwhile, her friends remember Suzie’s love for the outdoors, her devotion to her family, and her caring attitude in church and among the community. So, the community decided they would honor her in a special way.
Plenty Of People Turned Out
In their YouTube report, which you can see further down in this article, KRCR News Channel 7 showed crowds waiting to say their last farewell to her. The outlet noted that:
On Sunday, October 12, a solemn procession was held in Susan “Suzie” Smith’s honor. Smith was flown from Sacramento to Red Bluff, where first responders and community members gathered to pay their respects. From there, she was transported by ambulance to Palo Cedro, accompanied by emergency personnel from across Northern California.
Viewers React
In the discussion area, many people expressed their sadness for the family. Plus, they spoke about her service to others. One of them wrote, “She gave her life to public service every bit as much as law enforcement. She deserves the honor. This from a 36 year law enforcement veteran.”
Here are a few more emotional reactions:
- Devastatingly sad.
- God bless the family!
- I HAVE A VERY STRONG FEELING, SUZIE WOULD PROBABLY BE BLOWN AWAY BY THIS HONOR AND FINAL RIDE HOME. TEARS.
- Awe so she didn’t make it 🙁
Meanwhile, others wondered what caused the helicopter crash.
The Crash Details
The reason why the crash happened doesn’t seem to have been established yet. Plenty of people shared videos of the crash as the machine plunged down onto the embankment and then the road. People rushed to help pilot Chad Millward, Suzie, and paramedic Margaret “DeDe” Davis, who survived and remain in critical condition.
What are your thoughts about the community honoring Susan “Suzie” Smith and sending their thoughts to her family who remain behind? Let us know in the comments below, and remember to come back here often for all your family news and updates.
