The novel coronavirus pandemic has left an indelible mark on Americans of all ages and from all walks of life.
Those we've lost come from all backgrounds and include the very people -- first responders and medical staff -- who have been working so diligently and selflessly to stem the tide of the infection and care for the sick.
But the virus has also highlighted the disparities in the U.S. -- taking a disproportionate toll on communities of color, the elderly and the poor and calling attention to a new class of essential workers who don't have the protections of traditional first responders.
Luminaries in the arts, Holocaust survivors, war veterans, educators, doctors, transit workers are among the dead. Variously described as heroes, caring parents and loving family members, they will never be forgotten.
Here's a look at some of the more than 322,000 people in the U.S. who have lost their lives in 2020.
Update: Dec. 26
J.L. “Buck” Dancy, a sergeant who spent 35 years with the North Little Rock Police Department, died on Dec. 2.
Dancy, 62, "was a father figure and a mentor to younger officers," Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said in a statement.
"Chief Tracy Roulston says that Sergeant Dancy was the rock of the investigative division," Hutchinson said. "People loved him more than any officer, sergeant, detective that I can think of," Lt. Brian Dedrick told Little Rock station KTHV. "The compassion that he had -- that's what made him so good at what he did."
It is with saddened hearts that the NLRPD announces the passing of Sgt. J.L. “Buck” Dancy, 62. Sgt. Dancy is the first Police Officer to die in the Line of Duty in the State of Arkansas after contracting and battling Covid-19 for the past several weeks. pic.twitter.com/brWGr7GlDP
— North Little Rock PD (@NLRPD) December 2, 2020
Larry Dixon, 78, was an Alabama state senator for 27 years.
He also served as the chair of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners for 35 years.
The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners said in a statement: "From 1981 until his retirement in 2016, Larry served as the Board’s executive director and his accomplishments are many. He established the continuing education department at the Medical Association of the State of Alabama."
"He served four terms on the U.S. Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and was the first president of the Administrators in Medicine, an organization he helped charter. In 2014, FSMB awarded him its Lifetime Achievement Award, and he was inducted into the Alabama Healthcare Hall of Fame in 2016," the board said. "When he retired from the Board of Medical Examiners, our building in Montgomery was renamed in his honor as the Dixon-Parker Building."
AL.com reported that Dixon's last message to the public was a plea to take COVID-19 seriously.
“We messed up,” Dixon said, according to AL.com. “We just let our guard down. Please tell everybody to take this thing seriously and get help as soon as you get the virus.”
Former Alabama Sen. Larry Dixon died from COVID. His last words were a warning. “We messed up,” Dixon said. “We just let our guard down. Please tell everybody to take this thing seriously and get help as soon as you get the virus.”https://t.co/66jR9BAenQ
— Jim Cassidy (@JimCassidy48) December 8, 2020
Mohammad Jawed, 59, a beloved, small town Kentucky doctor, died on Oct. 31, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Jawed was born in Pakistan. He completed his residency in New York and moved to Corbin, Kentucky, in 1997, his obituary said.
Jawed was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood, about two years ago, and returned to work within six months, the Journal reported.
Though he used telemedicine at the beginning of the pandemic, Jawed also wanted to see patients in person, the Journal said.
"He wanted to continue helping his patients," Ghazal Jawed, the oldest of his three daughters, told the Journal. “He didn’t want to drop the ball on anyone.”
Hundreds of medical workers have died of Covid-19. One of them, Mohammad Jawed, has been declared a hero by Kentucky's governor for sticking with his patients in Corbin. https://t.co/glGsjlEl6W via @WSJ
— james graff (@lathram) November 19, 2020
Update: Dec. 19
Paul Blackwell and his wife Rose Mary Blackwell both died of COVID-19 within hours of each other on Dec. 13, their son told Dallas station KDFW.
The husband and wife were both teachers in Grand Prairie, Texas.
"Rose Mary Blackwell served as a 2nd-grade bilingual teacher while also being a team leader and mentor. She was the longest tenured teacher at Travis World Language Academy having taught at the campus for the past 20 years," the Grand Prairie Independent School District said. "Paul Blackwell served as a PE teacher, mentor, and coach at Fannin Middle School where he had served for the past five years. Previously, he had taught at the Young Men’s Leadership Academy at Kennedy Middle School."
Robert "Bobby" Rocha, a fire captain in Kansas City, Missouri, died on Nov. 21.
The 60-year-old served 29 years with the fire department.
"He was a vibrant and beloved part of the KCFD Family," Fire Chief Donna Lake said in a statement. "His passing represents a personal loss to all of us who knew him. I cherish both his friendship and professionalism."
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said, “Captain Rocha honorably served Kansas City for years, touching an immeasurable number of lives with his heroism along the way."
@KCMOFireDept regrets to announce the passing of Captain Robert “Bobby” Rocha who lost his battle with COVID-19 early this morning. The passing of Capt. Rocha saddens all KCFD deeply. Funeral arrangements and information will follow in the days to come. https://t.co/Psrut5twSW pic.twitter.com/1zf1IdCcf8
— KCFD (@KCMOFireDept) November 21, 2020
Gary Woodward, who spent 25 years as a critical care nurse at a Nashville hospital, died on Nov. 27, ABC Nashville affiliate WKRN reported.
"He was something fierce and a true embodiment of our Mission at Ascension Saint Thomas,” Fahad Tahir, president and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West, said in a statement published by WKRN. “As witnessed in his dedication to his calling since the beginning of this pandemic, Gary’s love for his patients was remarkable and inspiring."
Woodward, 64, is survived by his wife of 45 years as well as three daughters and six grandchildren, his obituary said.
"This virus has taken a healthy man with no prior medical conditions and impacted every organ in his body," is how Jacque Woodward describes her husband Gary, who has been helping others with COVID-19 as a nurse before contracting the virus. https://t.co/w6bM7KrndP
— WSMV News4 Nashville (@WSMV) November 24, 2020
Update: Dec. 12
Mickey Bowen, a deputy who served 21 years with Alabama's DeKalb County Sheriff's Office, died on Oct. 27, the department said.
Bowen had recently been promoted to chief executive assistant in the detention center, reported ABC Huntsville affiliate WAAY.
"Mickey always had a way of making us laugh and brightening our day," DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said in a statement. "To us, it's like losing a close family member." The 49-year-old leaves behind a wife and two daughters.
Deputy Mickey Bowen worked at the Sheriff’s Office for 21 years. https://t.co/G42c7zjvQ2
— WAFF 48 (@waff48) October 29, 2020
Irving McPhail died on Oct. 15, three months after becoming the 12th president of Saint Augustine’s University, a historically black college in Raleigh, North Carolina.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper tweeted that he was "a dedicated leader who made a positive impact on St. Augustine’s University in the short time he was President."
"He was self-confident and he instilled that into everybody around him, including the students. He was student-centered," Board of Trustees Chairman James E. Perry told ABC Raleigh station WTVD.
Perry described him as a "transformative leader" with "qualities that you can immediately sense that are so palpable when you get in his presence."
"His humility, his wisdom, his gravitas," Perry said.
McPhail is survived by his wife and two children.
It’s with great sadness to announce the passing of the 12th President of SAU, Dr. Irving Pressley McPhail.
— Saint Augustine's University (@SAU_News) October 16, 2020
Details of public events & university memorial arrangements will be published on our website.
Dr. Maria A. Lumpkin will serve as Interim President, effective immediately. pic.twitter.com/rkjOjmAQ2j
Jamesha Waddell, 23, died on Nov. 19, her college president said.
She was a senior at Livingstone College, a private, historically black Christian college in North Carolina.
The North Carolina native was set to graduate in December and dreamed of becoming a detective, her uncle told WWAY in Wilmington.
“She was wonderful," her cousin Whitney Waddell told WCNC in Charlotte. "She had a smile that would light up the room."
Jamesha Waddell spent her 23rd birthday in the ICU.
— DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) November 20, 2020
The Livingstone College senior died this morning, months after testing positive for #COVID19.
Her cousin described Waddell as "a family jewel."
⁰Another friend said, "I don't need anyone to tell me this virus is not real." pic.twitter.com/xO6my6DhbC
Update: Dec. 5
Richard "Dick" Barr, 79, of Lincoln, Rhode Island, died on Nov. 12.
He is survived by his wife, three children and seven grandchildren. Among his grandchildren is Luke Barr, an ABC News journalist.
Richard Barr worked for Blackstone Valley Electric for 39 years as a lineman and crew chief.
A former Marine Corp football player, he spent 40 years coaching youth and high school football.
"He adored coaching through the years -- teaching the sport he loved and also teaching life lessons to athletes that crossed his path," his obituary said.
"Above all, he loved his family deeply," his obituary said. "He was the rock of our family, the eternal optimist, finding light in even the darkest times."
Heidi Hussli, a teacher at Bay Port High School in Wisconsin, died on Sept. 17, according to the school district.
The 47-year-old wife and mother taught German at the high school for 16 years, The Green Bay Press Gazette reported.
"She took dozens of kids, including our principal's son, to Germany," teacher Amber Viegut told the newspaper. "She made countless trips to Chicago to the Christmas market. She led amazing cultural events at the school, too. My favorite memory is her yearly dress-up for Oktoberfest."
"This news is heart-wrenching to all of us who have known Heidi," Howard-Suamico School District Superintendent Damian LaCroix said. "Her positivity and passion for her students and her craft left a lasting mark on our school community."
A letter to parents and staff says teacher Heidi Hussli died Thursday after a brief hospitalization. https://t.co/e9IFDmrgJr
— WBAY-TV 2 (@WBAY) September 17, 2020
Guadalupe "Lupe" Lopez was a 911 dispatcher at Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications.
The 58-year-old Chicago native died on Nov. 16, The Chicago Tribune reported.
"Lupe was not only a beloved employee of the OEMC family for over 33 years, but also a wonderful friend to many, including many at the Chicago Police," the Office of Emergency Management & Communications said. "He will be deeply missed."
Chicago police tweeted, "Officers in Chicago rely on their dispatchers while serving and protecting this city. For Chicago police officers working in @ChicagoCAPS10 & @ChicagoCAPS11, Lupe Lopez was a voice of security and reassurance. Our heartfelt condolences are with Lupe's family & friends."
“Everybody that ever came up to me said that my dad’s gotten them out of a situation," his son, Richie Lopez, told the Tribune.
Lopez was also a basketball and baseball coach for children in his community, the Tribune reported.
Lopez is survived by his wife, three children and four grandchildren.
OEMC is incredibly saddened that one of our 9-1-1 Dispatchers, Lupe Lopez (PCOII), passed away. Lupe was not only a beloved employee of the OEMC family for over 33 years, but also a wonderful friend to many, including many at the @Chicago_Police. He will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/JqvUiO0VwD
— Chicago OEMC (@ChicagoOEMC) November 16, 2020
Update: Nov. 21
Margie Kidd was an elementary school teacher in South Carolina who "served the people of Jasper County as a professional educator for 26 years," the Jasper County School District said.
Kidd, 71, taught first grade and kindergarten, the Jasper County Sun Times reported.
“She always went above and beyond for her students and their families, and if she could help out, she would,” one of Kidd’s daughters, Essa Jackson, told the Jasper County Sun Times.
"We lost a most beloved member of our school district family," the district said.
First grade teacher Margie Kidd taught at Ridgeland Elementary School for more than two decades. She died Sept. 28 from COVID-19 complications. She was 71. https://t.co/WNxjbSOyTp
— Jenna Schiferl (@Jennaschif) October 9, 2020
Leland Lambert, a longtime Nebraska doctor, died on Sept. 12, The Associated Press reported.
"Our hearts are heavy," Great Plains Health said in a statement on Facebook. "North Platte has lost a wonderful man and exceptional physician."
“He was a visionary, a mentor and a friend to many," Great Plains Health CEO Mel McNea said, according to the AP. "He truly loved practicing medicine and serving his patients, and it showed.”
Leland Lamberty’s COVID-19 condition is believed to be the result of community spread. He was a firm believer in the effectiveness of personal protective equipment, hospital officials said. https://t.co/swWRvAlPZI
— Lincoln Journal Star (@JournalStarNews) September 14, 2020
Bethany Nesbitt, a 20-year-old student at Grace College in Indiana, died on Oct. 29 in her dorm room, where she had been isolating after her COVID-19 diagnoses, said her brother, Stephen Nesbitt, a journalist with The Atlantic.
The youngest of nine siblings, Nesbitt was expected to graduate next spring, he said.
She hoped to pursue a career as a child life specialist, "helping children and families navigate the process of illness, injury, disability, trauma, or hospitalization," according to Grace College.
"Bethany loved Jesus," her family said in a statement. "She was a selfless and loving friend, a source of constant encouragement to all those around her. She had a passion for helping others, especially children, and her sassy sense of humor and wonderful laugh put them at ease."
Our hearts are shattered. My sweet sister, Bethany, died as she slept in her dorm room Thursday night. She was 20. She was COVID-19 positive. The cause of death was a pulmonary embolism—the result of a blood clot—widely recognized as a common cause of death in COVID-19 patients. pic.twitter.com/w6ky17Ra8v
— Stephen J. Nesbitt (@stephenjnesbitt) November 3, 2020
Update: Nov. 14
Tyler Amburgey, a 29-year-old youth hockey coach from Texas, died on Aug. 29, The New York Times reported.
Amburgey started playing hockey when he was 7.
The defenseman went on to play for several minor league teams before retiring in 2016, the Times reported.
Amburgey leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
"He enjoyed life most when he was with family, relaxing on the porch with his beloved wife Aimee or teaching his daughter Rylee how to do her best at whatever her passion was, while at the same time to accept and handle adversity," his obituary said.
The Peoria Rivermen are incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of former defenseman Tyler Amburgey. A Clark Cup Champion and Texas native, Amburgey played parts of 2 seasons with Peoria from 2013-15, logging 29 points in 52 games. He was 29 years old. ️ pic.twitter.com/rXBZAmHy2W
— Peoria Rivermen (@Peoria_Rivermen) August 30, 2020
Tyler Amburgey, Devoted Hockey Player & Coach, Dies at 29. @NYTimes obituary reveals that Tyler wanted to donate his brain to the VA-BU-@ConcussionLF Brain Bank to try to understand why he was having memory problems. They he died of COVID-19. So sad. https://t.co/Q53l6jsLqq
— Chris Nowinski, Ph.D. (@ChrisNowinski1) September 18, 2020
Lizzy Sanchez, a pregnant 31-year-old mother of two, died on July 31.
She was six months pregnant, reported KOKH in Oklahoma City. Sanchez first lost her baby and then died several days later.
"I've never, ever seen so much grief and sadness as I've seen with this," her brother-in-law, Mark Inscoe, told ABC News. "A few days before she got sick, she was here at the house and we were talking about life and what she was going to name her baby."
Sanchez is survived by her husband, her 13-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter.
Jeannette Williams-Parker, 48, was a nurse with WVU Medicine in West Virginia.
Albert Wright, president and CEO of WVU Medicine, said in a statement, "Jeannette was a clinical nurse preceptor and nurse supervisor of MRI. She joined the MRI team at Ruby in March of 1997 and was the first nurse to work in that program. At the time of her death, she was the nursing leader for all pediatric anesthesia coordination and our focused ultrasound MRI program."
"I’m told that Jeannette lived on the sunny side of life, and that her energy, enthusiasm, and positive attitude were all highly infectious and helped sustain the MRI team," Wright said. "The patients for whom she cared likewise adored her." Williams-Parker is survived by her fiance as well as her 18-year-old daughter who is in her first semester as a nursing student at West Virginia University, Wright said.
Jeannette Williams-Parker became the first nurse to die in West Virginia of Covid-19. She was 48. https://t.co/hfxz6DRyHw
— NYT Obituaries (@NYTObits) October 27, 2020
Update: Nov. 7
Michael Lang, an 18-year-old from La Grange, Illinois, was a freshman at the University of Dayton.
The excited new college student arrived on campus in early August, and by Labor Day, he had COVID-19 symptoms, ABC Chicago station WLS reported.
Lang left campus on Sept. 13 and returned home to study remotely from his parents'. He died on Oct. 22, the University of Dayton said.
The teenager "enjoyed golf, fishing and all sports and was a good friend to all," his obituary said.
Lang is survived by his parents and brother.
'Hug your kid. Tell your kid everyday how much you love them.' 18-year-old University of Dayton college freshman Michael Lang of La Grange dies of COVID-19 complications. https://t.co/4JCmoYgpqC pic.twitter.com/8JTIpb6Sb4
— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) October 27, 2020
Tulsa police officer Jerad Lindsey died on Oct. 28.
The 40-year-old leaves behind his wife and two young sons, the department said.
Lindsey joined the Tulsa Police Department in 2005. At the time of his death, LIndsey was the Tulsa Fraternal Order of Police chairman and Oklahoma Fraternal Order of Police vice president, the department said.
Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said, "Jerad loved the men and women of the Tulsa Police Department deeply. It drove his work as Chairman of the Fraternal Order of Police, and for him that work was not a job but a calling."
“We had been making plans for the work we would do together over the next four years to make Tulsa the best city it can be for those courageous men and women who risk their lives to keep Tulsans safe," Bynum said. "That work - his work - will continue."
TFD mourns the loss of Officer Jerad Lindsey. Jerad was a champion in working towards better conditions for the @TulsaPolice. Jerad frequently stopped by to check in with our Arson Investigators, who cross train with TPD, His passing is an enormous lose to the city. #oneteamtulsa pic.twitter.com/2vicxRbxWL
— Tulsa Fire Dept. (@TulsaFire) October 28, 2020
Susanne Michael, an elementary school teacher in Arkansas, died on Oct. 1, according to the Harrisburg School District.
Michael graduated from Williams Baptist University and taught for six years at Weiner Elementary School before moving to Harrisburg Elementary. She was beginning her ninth year of teaching at the school, the school district said.
"She was devoted to her students and their success and wellbeing," the school district said.
“Her students loved her,” her husband, Keith Michael, told The Southwest Times Record. “I would be somewhere with her at the store and her kids would come up running up to her and hug her."
The Harrisburg School District announced Friday that one of its elementary school teachers, Susanne Michael, had died. https://t.co/s4lI0EsI0h
— Region 8 News (@Region8News) October 2, 2020
Update: Oct. 31
Amihilda Halim Menina, who spent 54 years as a registered nurse, died on March 31 at the age of 76.
Her daughter, Normina Nicotra, said her hands were a gift to each patient she cared for -- she rubbed her patients’ backs before they went to sleep, fed them, bathed them and held their hands when nothing else could be done.
"When we were young, my mother would use her hands to feel if we had a fever," Nicotra told ABC News. "They might have been more accurate than a thermometer. Her hands carried us as babies, wiped our tears and dressed our wounds... I used to believe my mom’s hands were magic. There was nothing she couldn’t do."
Menina took care of her husband who died six months before she did, her daughter said.
"There are not enough words to explain how much she has influenced my life," Nicotra said. "My mother was hardworking, often working two jobs so that her children could want for nothing. Yet despite the long hours taking care of patients, often 16 hour days, she always had time for us. She must have been exhausted, taking care of three kids, running a household, career, caring for her own mother, but you would never know it. She never lost her patience. She very seldom yelled, she never complained and she always made time for us. She was there. Every step."
Eric Twisdale spent three decades in law enforcement and was a committed member of the Clay County Sheriff's Department in Florida.
He was most recently serving as supervisor of the crime scene unit.
Twisdale was named "Deputy of the Year" in 2015 for his work during the apprehension of two murder suspects, the department said.
Twisdale "earned a reputation for being courageous and having a huge heart," the sheriff's department said.
Those who knew Sgt. Eric Twisdale with the Clay County Sheriff's Office said he was committed to serving the community and had a huge heart. Sgt. Twisdale passed away from COVID-19 complications. His law enforcement career stretches more than two decades. @ActionNewsJax pic.twitter.com/sfQqwfobA0
— Christy Turner (@ChristyANJax) September 17, 2020
Choua Lee Yang was the chief executive officer of Minnesota's Prairie Seeds Academy. The 53-year-old founded the Hmong charter school with her husband in 2004, The Star Tribune reported.
Yang came to the U.S. as a Hmong refugee when she was 12, later forging a lifelong career as an educator, the Star Tribune reported.
Prairie Seeds Academy said in a statement, "Choua understood and valued the importance of education and devoted her entire career to the profession, starting in 1996 with her first teaching job."
"Choua served as the Principal of PSA since 2008 and became its Chief Executive Officer in 2020. Under her leadership, PSA increased its enrollment and student success, providing thousands of students with an outstanding education," the school said. "There was nothing more important to her than the students of PSA. She celebrated their successes, cared deeply when they were troubled and needed help, and was devoted to making things better for every student, family, and staff member."
"She was an exceptional leader who served with humility and contributed immensely to the growth of many teachers, principals, and administrators. Those that have been fortunate to work with Choua will remember her constant encouragement and above all, her kindness," the school said. "Her entire life was dedicated to serving others. She lifted us with her humor and high spirits and was a constant light during troubled times."
Choua Lee Yang, educator and founder of the Hmong charter school Prairie Seeds Academy, has died of COVID-19. She was 53. https://t.co/8cOO4h8vjt
— Star Tribune (@StarTribune) October 13, 2020
Update: Oct. 24
Julie Davis taught third grade at Norwood Elementary in North Carolina.
The 49-year-old had been an educator for 18 years, her daughter told ABC affiliate WSOC.
"She could reach every child in the classroom," her daughter told WSOC. "She just loved every child."
In her two years at Norwood Elementary, "Mrs. Davis earned a well-deserved reputation as an inspirational teacher who was always seeking ways to support every student so that they were able to fulfill their potential," Stanly County Schools said in a statement. "She implemented creative ways of teaching and her high standards and expectations motivating others to achieve their best."
"Students absolutely loved being taught by Mrs. Davis. Her personality was infectious and she brought joy into the lives of the students, staff, and community," the district said.
“She was the most cautious person, she always wore her mask.
— Genevieve Curtis (@GenevieveWSOC9) October 5, 2020
I want everyone to remember who she was.
How hard she worked.
How hard she loved.”
Julie Davis’ daughter spoke with me about her mom. The 3rd grade teacher died of COVID yesterday.
Her story on @wsoctv at 5 pic.twitter.com/5Ncc2pI2Zr
We share our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and school community of Mrs. Julie Davis during this difficult time. https://t.co/yacvbeslde
— NC Public Schools (@ncpublicschools) October 5, 2020
Lonnie Norman, mayor of Manchester, Tennessee, died on Oct. 12.
Norman became the city's first Black mayor in 1991.
"His friends and neighbors returned him to the Mayor's office four times -- an act of trust for which he was immensely grateful," Norman's family said in a statement that was released by the city. "In his numerous campaigns for public office, he never lost a political race. He loved his hometown and they loved him."
"A new recreation complex, soccer field, improvements to countless parks, other infrastructure, and support for our beloved Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival were among his proudest accomplishments," his family said. "He also fought hard against rural hospital closures, so all Coffee County citizens could access quality, affordable healthcare."
The city's board of mayor and alderman called him a "dedicated servant," and, "above all else, he was kind, honest, and thoughtful."
"He guided our community with a strong and steady yet gentle hand with empathy and compassion."
Another horrific loss too soon, this one a dear friend's father, our Manchester Mayor. RIP Lonnie Norman.
— Anthony Davis (@District7) October 12, 2020
Manchester Mayor Lonnie Norman dies of COVID-19 https://t.co/tKN0n4CXaf
Wendell Smith, a school district transportation worker in South Carolina, died from COVID-19 on Sept. 13, officials with Spartanburg County School District Six said.
Smith was a beloved bus monitor who supervised behavior and made sure children were getting off at the right stop, reported FOX Carolina.
"If you’ve ever crossed paths with Mr. Smith, you know he never met a stranger. He was truly dedicated to his position and always put the students’ interests before his own," the district said in a statement. "His calm, jovial demeanor touched the lives of students and those he worked closely with each day."
"Mr. Smith’s wife Terry, and stepdaughter Nataki are also members of our District Six family. We send our deepest condolences and ask that you keep them in your prayers during this most difficult time," the district added.
Update: Oct. 17
Olga Quiroga taught first grade at Funston Elementary in Chicago, ABC Chicago station WLS reported.
She died one day after her 58th birthday, one of her daughters, Gladys Quiroga Watts, told WLS.
Quiroga first cleaned houses when she and her husband moved from Mexico to Chicago, according to WLS. As a teacher, Quiroga wanted to help low-income students.
She spent 30 years teaching at Chicago Public Schools, according to the Chicago Sun Times.
Chicago Teachers Unions President Jesse Sharkey said in a statement, "Olga had both tremendous love and high expectations for her students, who knew she cared deeply for them and was committed to their success. As a Mexican immigrant herself, Olga understood the plight of her immigrant students’ families, and in her work she supported not just children but their parents and siblings in their efforts to navigate the school district. Her warmth, giving nature and commitment to support whole families was an inspiration to her fellow educators and every student she encountered."
More heartbreak. Our beloved Funston ES sister Olga Quiroga (right) has died of COVID. From her daughters: "Let my mom be the one to help make a difference and keep people safe...let it be used as an example that this is very real and CPS isn't protecting them like they should." pic.twitter.com/2L5UNXtITv
— ChicagoTeachersUnion (@CTULocal1) October 2, 2020
Charles Peterson was an assistant high school football coach in South Carolina.
"There are good coaches and then there are good men! Coach Peterson was both," head coach Robin Bacon tweeted. "God put him on this earth to help young people and he did more in his life to help others and spread joy."
Among the players Peterson coached was his son, Trey Peterson, who tweeted, "I can’t put into words how much my father meant to me and everyone he loved."
The 46-year-old had also been an amateur scout for the St. Louis Cardinals organization since 2012, The State reported.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of amateur scout Charles Peterson.
— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) September 14, 2020
Hired by the team in 2012, Charles was the signing scout for our 2020 1st rd. pick Jordan Walker.
Our thoughts and condolences are with Charles’ family and friends. pic.twitter.com/vBEdX0n5cE
This breaks my heart. My thoughts & prayers go out to @Skiblue65 and the Peterson family. @SV_Vikings and our football team are hurting. CP was a great man, husband, father, and an incredible asset to our community. I will miss you and hope to see you again. #RIPCP pic.twitter.com/gmQRpE9Hug
— Coach Dan Morgan (@Air_Thor) September 13, 2020
Houston Fire Capt. Tommy Searcy, an 18-year veteran of the department, died on Sept. 8, the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association said.
The 45-year-old is survived by three daughters, reported ABC Houston station KTRK.
Searcy is also survived by his twin brother, Tony. The two became volunteer firemen when they turned 18, and they both joined the Houston Fire Department where they worked as captains, KTRK reported.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said in a statement, "On behalf of the City of Houston, I extend condolences to the family of Houston Fire Captain Tommy Searcy."
"Capt. Searcy fought his illness with the same fierce bravery that he exhibited throughout his 18-year HFD career," Turner said. "Searcy's family, HFD Chief Sam Pena, and fellow firefighters will undoubtedly miss his leadership and dedication to the fire department."
Today Houston honored the life of Captain Tommy Searcy with a beautiful memorial ceremony. Captain Searcy was an 18-year veteran of @HoustonFire who passed away due to COVID-19. My condolences to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/NZK2mgVM2S
— Carol Alvarado (@CarolforTexas) September 16, 2020
Update: Oct. 10
Dr. Adeline Fagan was a 28-year-old beginning her second year of OB/GYN residency in Houston, ABC Houston station KTRK reported.
"We are heartbroken," read a statement from HCA Healthcare West, where Fagan worked. "Dr. Fagan touched so many lives and will always be remembered for her happiness and beautiful smile, as well as her dedication to moms and babies."
Fagan, one of four sisters, grew up in upstate New York, Syracuse.com reported.
According to Syracuse.com. Fagan's father wrote on a memorial page, "If you can do one thing, be an ‘Adeline’ in the world."
"Be passionate about helping others less fortunate, have a smile on your face, a laugh in your heart, and a Disney tune on your lips.”
Overnight, Dr. Adeline Fagan succumbed to COVID19. Another bright light gone too soon. At 28, her fellow obgyn residents knew her as radiating kindness.
— Jesse O’Shea MD, MSc (@JesseOSheaMD) September 19, 2020
To her sisters and family, I grieve with you.
To my fellow healthcare workers, please continue to be careful. She is us. pic.twitter.com/rLSX3jMxbP
Aldemar “Al” Rengifo Jr., a lieutenant with Florida's Broward Sheriff's Department, died on Aug. 16.
The 47-year-old Boston native served Broward County for over 20 years, joining the sheriff's department in January 2000.
He was promoted to lieutenant last year, the department said.
Rengifo, a "true professional," most recently worked in the Youth and Neighborhood Services Bureau where he oversaw school resource officers, police explorers and the Police Athletic League, the department said.
In 2012 he was named "Detective of the Year," the department said.
Rengifo is survived by his wife and son.
We are saddened to announce the passing of BSO Lieutenant Aldemar “Al” Rengifo Jr., who died on Sunday, August 16 after testing positive and being hospitalized for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on July 27. Learn more about his dedication to Broward County https://t.co/POMhNKzqrn. pic.twitter.com/nKtAzXVhCs
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) August 16, 2020
Tom Slade, a teacher at Vancleave High School in Mississippi, died on Sept. 6, the school said.
The 53-year-old history and world civilizations instructor graduated from Vancleave High School in 1984 and started teaching there in 1991, the Sun Herald reported.
Slade "never let anyone in his class feel like they weren’t wanted in the classroom,” a former student told the Sun Herald.
"He was a true representation of a Vancleave Bulldog and we will forever miss his wisdom, wittiness, love for all students, and love for his school family," the school said in a statement.
Update: Oct. 3
Demetria "Demi" Bannister, a teacher at Windsor Elementary School in South Carolina, died on Sept. 7, according to the Richland School District Two.
Bannister started at the elementary school five years ago, educating fifth graders. This was supposed to be her first year teaching third grade.
She also led the student choir.
“Known as Windsor’s Songbird, Ms. Bannister used her musical talents to bring a great deal of joy to our school," Principal Denise Quickel said in a statement released by the school district. "For our school’s Attendance Matters kickoff in 2019 she wrote a song about the importance of coming to school to the tune of ‘Old Town Road’. The song and video were a big hit with our school family. Ms. Bannister loved her students and never missed an opportunity to advocate for students and public education.”
Superintendent Baron Davis added, "Ms. Bannister’s legacy lives on through the lives of the students she taught in her five years as a dedicated educator. To honor Ms. Bannister’s memory I ask the Richland Two family to join me in reaffirming our commitment to doing all we can to provide premier learning experiences for all students in the safest environment possible and doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19."
She would have turned 29 in two months. SC elementary school teacher Demetria "Demi" Bannister dies of COVID-19. My heart goes out to her family, friends, fellow teachers and students. https://t.co/w8ZMZLjTXc
— Jamie Self (@jamiemself) September 9, 2020
Derek Leppert, an assistant baseball coach at Olathe West High School in Kansas, died on Sept. 10.
Last year, Leppert was named the American Baseball Coaches Association Assistant High School Coach of the year, according to his school biography.
"Coach Leppert was a larger than life figure in our community," tweeted Principal Jay Novacek. "Whether it was coaching his life passion of baseball, giving students trouble for being late in the attendance officer, arguing with moms for calling students out for lunch, or working basketball games at the pass gate -- Lepp's personality and booming east coast voice will be sorely missed."
On Sept. 9, Leppert tweeted, "Just woke up from my 9th day in ICU/Isolation from Covid. It has been a battle. Hoping to get a transferred [sic] to a Long Term care facility today since I have suffered temporary paralysis of my legs. Lucky to have a great family."
Later in the day he tweeted, "Settled into my long term care room... but I will be back stronger."
It is with a heavy heart that today we announce the passing of Derek Leppert. Please keep Stacy, the boys, and all Lepp’s family in your prayers.
— Olathe West Baseball (@ASabath2) September 10, 2020
Big fella I love ya. We love ya. Thanks for coming into my life, our life, and leaving your mark on this earth. RIP @bvswbaseball pic.twitter.com/HSjfCXanqD
Dr. Rebecca Shadowen, a specialist in infectious diseases and healthcare epidemiology at Med Center Health in Kentucky, died on Sept. 11.
"Dr. Shadowen joined the Medical Staff at The Medical Center at Bowling Green in 1989, and has been a physician leader in our region, across the Commonwealth of Kentucky and nationally for over 30 years," Med Center Health said in a statement.
"There are really no words to describe the pain felt by her family, physician colleagues and Med Center Health teammates," Connie Smith, President and CEO of Med Center Health, said in a statement. "Dr. Shadowen will forever be remembered as a nationally recognized expert who provided the very best care for our patients and community. She was a dear friend to many.”
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear tweeted, "I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Dr. Rebecca Shadowen, a front line hero who worked tirelessly to protect the lives of others. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and colleagues. Please, follow Dr. Shadowen’s advice – wear a mask in her honor."
Our Med Center Health team continues to mourn the loss of Dr. Rebecca D. Shadowen. Today, at 1:20pm during her funeral service, we invite the community to join us in a moment of silence in her honor. Dr. Shadowen shared the words below in one of her last written communications. pic.twitter.com/jg9WSPhmVW
— Connie Smith (@ConnieSmithCEO) September 17, 2020
Update: Sept. 26
David Freeman, superintendent of the Flour Bluff School District in Texas, died on Aug. 5, the district said.
The 46-year-old was put in a local hospital's intensive care COVID-19 unit on July 20, his sister said, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
"We are heartbroken and grief stricken over the sudden loss of our fearless leader," the district said in a statement. "Although he was our superintendent, he was first and foremost a loving and devoted husband and father. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Cassie, and their three children--Callie, Brock and Jenna."
School Board President Shirley Thornton said in a statement, "Just a little over a year ago, we welcomed Dr. Freeman, his wife and children into the Hornet Family."
"His first year at the helm of FBISD did not start off smoothly," Thornton said. "Somehow, he saw us through numerous electrical outages, AC issues, and a school closure. Despite those issues, the Board was confident in David’s leadership to ensure we continued providing a high-quality level of instruction for our students no matter what obstacles came our way. When faced with a problem, David didn’t panic. He calmly thought it through and made a decision to work on a solution. ... Dr. Freeman saw each obstacle as an opportunity to shine, and he would expect that of all us right now."
Corey Pendergrass, an officer with Florida's Lauderhill Police Department since 1997, died on July 26. The 51-year-old "was one of the most humble officers on the planet and was loved by everyone,” spokesman Lt. Michael Santiago told the Sun Sentinel. "It’s taken a huge toll on the entire department, including the chief."
"We suffered a great loss when Corey Pendergrass was taken from us," Police Chief Constance Stanley said in a statement. "Not only was Corey a great person, a community leader, a friend, and an officer; he was an incredible husband and father."
Pendergrass has been posthumously promoted to the rank of sergeant.
Pendergrass is survived by his wife and children, including a 21-year-old son who plans to become a police officer, Pendergrass' daughter told the Sun Sentinel.
It is with a heavy heart that the Lauderhill Police Department announce the passing of our Brother, Officer Corey Pendergrass, who died this morning of complications related to Covid-19. Corey has honorably served with us since 1997. We will miss you tremendously. pic.twitter.com/TIXYY7XHFI
— LauderhillPDPIO (@LPDPIO) July 26, 2020
Jim Smith, 79, was an addiction counselor and a longtime LGBTQ advocate in Staten Island, New York, New York 1 reported.
He was born and raised on Staten Island and spent decades pushing for equality in his community.
"He could have very easily ... moved to Manhattan where he would have been welcomed. And he could have lived his life in peace as an openly gay man in the 60s and 70s," friend Matt Titone told NY1. "He chose to stay on Staten Island and to educate and persevere."
Smith died on June 29, NY1 reported, coinciding with the anniversary of New York City's Stonewall riots, a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ rights.
"We lost an icon.”
— Gay City News (@GayCityNews) July 12, 2020
Staten Island-based LGBTQ pioneer Jim Smith died on June 28 at 79. https://t.co/KalmQtCrfo
Update: Sept. 19
Jason Stein, athletic director at Florida's J.P. Taravella High School, died on Aug. 20.
"As an educator he wore many hats: teacher, coach, mentor, driver’s ed. teacher, athletic director, counselor, and so much more," Principal Marietta DeArmas said in a statement.
"JP Taravella High School will never be the same," DeArmas said. "He was a true brother, a confidant, and an irreplaceable friend."
"Coach Stein was a perfect example of being one of the leaders of our JPT family. He never met a stranger, he was as REAL as anyone could be and most people quickly picked up that he was all HEART" DeArmas said.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
#Taravella athletic director Jason Stein dies at 46 from #COVID-19 complications https://t.co/7QDufaU9T2 pic.twitter.com/vprUFmIvu9
— Sentinel HS Sports (@SSHighSchools) August 20, 2020
Officer Bobby Montgomery was a 17-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department.
Montgomery, who was known for his kindness and empathy, is survived by his wife and three children, reported ABC Memphis affiliate WATN.
"Everyone who came into contact with him got to see firsthand why many of his coworkers affectionately referred to him as a 'Gentle Giant.' Every day, Bobby came to work and served with a pleasant disposition and a smile on his face. He never complained, he just faithfully served," the department said in a statement. "Officer Montgomery personified what it means to be the Best In Blue. His hard work and dedication to serving our community will be missed."
Christina Reyna spent 24 years as a teacher with Texas' Corpus Christi Independent School District.
Reyna, who died on Aug. 14, was planning to teach first grade this year and then retire when the school year ended, reported KRIS-TV, an NBC affiliate in Corpus Christi.
"She will forever be remembered for her dedication to her students, lighting up any room with her beautiful smile and her sense of humor," read a statement from her school, Los Encinos Elementary School.
Reyna is survived by her husband and her two children, ages 15 and 13, reported KRIS-TV.
Update: Sept. 5
Mac Hodges, the mayor of Washington, North Carolina, died on Aug. 12, the city said.
"We are heartbroken," read a statement from the city. "But, we are also thankful for his amazing leadership, vision and most importantly the friendship he provided, always with a smile, to everyone he met."
Hodges, 69, had been mayor since 2013. He was most recently re-elected in 2019, The News & Observer reported.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper tweeted, "So very sorry to lose Mac Hodges, the great Mayor of Washington, NC, to Covid-19 related complications. I'm grateful to have worked with such a strong leader and ECU [East Carolina University] supporter who made a real difference in the lives of many."
So very sorry to lose Mac Hodges, the great Mayor of Washington, NC, to Covid-19 related complications. I’m grateful to have worked with such a strong leader and ECU supporter who made a real difference in the lives of many. - RC https://t.co/TxlxjY8FyH
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) August 13, 2020
Eastern NC mayor dies after battle with COVID-19 https://t.co/zIV5dDy3Mg
— ABC11 EyewitnessNews (@ABC11_WTVD) August 13, 2020
Robert Rhodes, who was a professor at Texas Christian University's Neeley School of Business for more than 30 years, died on Aug. 14.
Rhodes attended Tulane University followed by law school at Baylor University. He practiced law until 1984, when he came to TCU, the university said.
“Rob Rhodes was a professor’s professor -- a master of the craft," Daniel Pullin, Dean of the Neeley School of Business, said in a statement. "He was a giant in the classroom and in life, which he lived so well."
"No one invested as deeply as he did in his students and the leaders he challenged them to be," Pullin said.
“This loss is devastating for me to relay and to bear, as I know it is for so many of our students, faculty and staff who admired Rob so much,” Pullin said.
Rhodes is survived by his son and his wife of 24 years, reported ABC Dallas affiliate WFAA.
We are sad to share the devastating news of the loss of our beloved professor, colleague and friend, Dr. Rob Rhodes. His passion for teaching, wit, wisdom and dedication to @TCU students for more than 30 years will leave a void in our halls and hearts. https://t.co/zPfPYSbhNs pic.twitter.com/3F8URLrMIl
— NeeleyTCU (@NeeleySchoolTCU) August 16, 2020
New Orleans police officer Sharon Williams, a 30-year veteran of the department, died on July 26.
The 54-year-old was born and raised in New Orleans and became "the mother hen of the station,” a police captain told The New York Times.
Williams spent most of her career as an administrator in a district including the Lower Ninth Ward which was decimated by Hurricane Katrina, the Times reported.
Williams is survived by her parents, siblings, son and her 10 grandchildren, according to the Times.
We are extremely sad to announce the passing of another member of our #NOPD family due to complications from #COVID19. Fifth District Ofc. Sharon Williams, a 30 year veteran of our Dept., passed away this morning. Please keep her family & friends in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/TmlXReoL6C
— NOPD (@NOPDNews) July 26, 2020
My heart is with our @NOPDnews, and with the family of Ofc. Sharon Williams, who passed this weekend due to COVID-19. This pandemic is impacting all of us on a personal level, and our first-responders are not immune. pic.twitter.com/ikFsHnGEhr
— Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell) July 27, 2020
Update: Aug. 22
Houston Fire Capt. Leroy Lucio, 62, died of COVID-19 on July 20, the department said.
Lucio joined the department in 1990 and was promoted to Captain in 2006.
He was planning to retire in one year, The Houston Chronicle reported.
Lucio is survived by his wife, two sons and daughter. "Our hearts go out to his family, friends and the many lives he touched through his work in our community," Chief Sam Peña said, according to the Chronicle. "Such a kind person will be missed, but my faith comforts me that his work here on earth was complete and God called for him to be by his side as he watches over all first responders."
Please pray for the family and fellow firefighters of Captain Leroy Lucio. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
— Melanie Lawson (@MelanieLawson13) July 21, 2020
A 29 year veteran of HFD, Lucio died from #COVID19 complications. He's the first Houston firefighter to pass away from the virus. #RestInPeace https://t.co/WW07a0O7fD #abc13 #hounews pic.twitter.com/p3ewfEg9Zz
Gilbert Polanco, 55, a longtime corrections officer at San Quentin prison in California, died on Aug. 9.
He started working at the prison when he was 21 years old, his daughter told ABC San Francisco station KGO.
"Sgt. Gilbert Polanco demonstrated unwavering commitment and bravery as a peace officer working the frontline every day during this devastating pandemic," Acting San Quentin Warden Ron Broomfield said, according to KGO. "His memory is carried on in the hearts of all the men and women who continue to battle this deadly virus at San Quentin. We mourn together with his family and pray for their peace and comfort in the midst of their immeasurable loss."
He is survived by his wife, son and daughter.
#heartbreaking news. Family of San Quentin Prison guard Gilbert Polanco say he died this morning in #SanJose after a long battle with #COVID19 Family & friends remember Polanco as a great husband, father & mentor.🌷❤️@abc7newsbayarea pic.twitter.com/16jfnSVI9z
— Cornell Barnard (@CornellBarnard) August 9, 2020
Eli Sevener, who graduated from a Washington state high school last year, died on Aug. 5, The Tacoma News Tribune reported.
He was 19, reported local NBC affiliate KING-TV.
"He was such a fantastic brother, friend, co-worker and son," his brother tweeted, according to the newspaper. "He had so much more to give to this world. "
Sevener played football and baseball at Puyallup High School.
"Eli’s impact on our coaches and players was huge," Puyallup’s football team tweeted. "He always had a smile and was one of the most fun to be around."
"He was just a tremendous young man," Puyallup baseball coach Marc Wiese told The News Tribune. "He was a hardworking dedicated young man that finally got his opportunity to shine as a senior on the mound."
2019 Puyallup High grad Eli Sevener, hospitalized with ‘COVID complications’ has died.
— Jon Manley (@manley_tnt) August 6, 2020
“He was just a great teammate. That senior group, they were extremely close. Those guys played together for a long time. I know he was beloved by his teammates.”https://t.co/lJfiJHj4np
The Puyallup Viking baseball family’s hearts are broken by the loss of one of their own. Eli will forever be missed, and we wish his family and community love and healing.
— Puyallup Baseball (@VikingBaseball_) August 5, 2020
The 2021 Vikings will play in his honor⚾️ pic.twitter.com/Hzlc2EPYuN
Update: Aug. 15
Jeff Kurtzman was a senior Los Angeles-based flight attendant for Hawaiian Airlines.
Kurtzman joined the airlines in 1986 and became known for "his passion for discovering new places, people and cultures; his terrific sense of humor and knack for easy conversation; and his caring heart," airline CEO Peter Ingram said in a statement. "Our In-Flight team has reached out to Jeff's husband and we will, of course, offer all the support that we can."
John Duran, a West Hollywood City Council member and former mayor, told The Advocate that he was in a gay men's chorus with Kurtzman.
"He was a sweet and gentle giant," Duran told The Advocate. "He gave away more to others than he received. He was an inspiration and a joyful presence in my life — and hundreds of others."
"He embodied the values of aloha and malama…"
— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) July 23, 2020
Jeff Kurtzman, a Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant who attended a training session plagued with coronavirus, tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month and succumbed to the illness.https://t.co/oUYsJPw1re
Lt. Erik Lloyd of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department died on July 29.
Lloyd joined the force in 1990 as a patrol officer, and then in 1995 he started as a narcotics detective, the department said.
He became sergeant in 2003 and lieutenant in 2014. Lloyd most recently oversaw the Force Investigation Team.
The LVMPD mourns the passing of Lieutenant Erik Lloyd. pic.twitter.com/NQTY3b78Ho
— LVMPD (@LVMPD) July 29, 2020
He was also president of the Injured Officers Police Fund, working to raise money for fallen officers' spouses as well as medical expenses for injured officers.
Lloyd is survived by his wife of 22 years, his two daughters and five grandchildren, the department said.
Michelle Villarreal was the child nutrition cafeteria manager at Leon Valley Elementary School in Texas, according to the school district.
"She always had a smile on her face and never hesitated to help out a student, teacher, cafeteria member, or the community," said a statement from the school. "She was kind-hearted and compassionate."
"Her passion for children, helping others, and baking was inspiring," the statement continued. "Michelle touched many hearts while at Leon Valley Elementary and will be deeply missed."
Michelle Villarreal is a mother, grandmother and @NISD employee. She died due to COVID-19 last Friday according to her son, Vincent. Villarreal was the cafeteria manager for Leon Valley Elementary School.@News4SA @KABBFOX29 pic.twitter.com/lHLNPBI9qR
— Amanda Henderson (@AmandaHTV) July 30, 2020
Villarreal was featured in this March video from the school district.
Our Child Nutrition teams rock! This week they're preparing grab-and-go breakfasts & hot meals for lunch. Thanks to everyone, like Michelle Villarreal, who is making sure NISD continues to be there for students & families. #NISDFamily pic.twitter.com/RfDv4iy4gI
— Northside ISD (@NISD) March 24, 2020
"She loved those kids," her husband, Marcos Villarreal, told ABC San Antonio affiliate KSAT. "She always talked about them."
She is survived by two children and her husband of 27 years, KSAT reported.
Update: Aug. 8
Darla Checketts was a teacher at Ben Lomond High School in Ogden, Utah.
The 57-year-old was also a mother of five, according to ABC Salt Lake City affiliate KTVX.
Checketts spent the last five years teaching family and consumer science at Ben Lomond High School, KTVX reported. She previously taught in Africa with the Peace Corps, according to KTVX.
"We encourage those who will miss her the most to remember Mrs. Checketts for the positive impact she made in her school and community," the Ogden School District said in a statement to ABC News. "We ask that her memory be honored by expressing kindness, caring and inclusion, just as she did."
"It was like losing my sister," Tammy Brown-Johansen said. "Honestly, it makes me sad to talk about her, but it also makes me sad not to talk about her." https://t.co/EYhemsbk60 pic.twitter.com/tKa9ciPFWn
— Standard-Examiner (@standardex) July 27, 2020
Los Angeles police officer Valentin Martinez died on July 24.
The 45-year-old was a 13-year veteran of the department, ABC Los Angeles station KABC reported.
"He worked as a patrol officer within @LAPDMission, dedicating his life to the people of LA," LAPD chief Michel Moore tweeted.
Martinez is survived by his domestic partner who is pregnant with twin boys. She is due in November, KABC said.
"To his partner Megan, his mother, and siblings—our deepest condolences. Ofcr Martinez, May God welcome you home," Moore wrote.
Today we lost Officer Valentin Martinez, who tragically fell to COVID-19.
— Chief Michel Moore (@LAPDChiefMoore) July 24, 2020
He worked as a patrol officer within @LAPDMission, dedicating his life to the people of LA. To his partner Megan, his mother, and siblings—our deepest condolences.
Ofcr Martinez, May God welcome you home. pic.twitter.com/rHObUO2lkz
Gary Tibbetts, a longtime staffer of Florida Rep. Vern Buchanan, died on July 24.
The 66-year-old worked for Buchanan since 2011, according to The Tampa Bay Times.
"Gary was the consummate professional and a true public servant in every sense of the word," Buchanan tweeted. "I will never forget his uplifting spirit, sense of humor and sheer joy at helping others."
Tibbett was also a former sergeant with New Hampshire's Manchester Police Department. He retired after more than 22 years, said ABC Manchester affiliate WMUR.
Lost a great man last week. Retired MPD Sergeant Gary Tibbetts.
— Ryan Grant (@Ryangrant97) July 28, 2020
One of my first sergeants when I was new to MPD. He and his wife Val stopped by in Aug 2019 to say hello and see the "new" station. I'm glad they did. @Chief_Capano @BNOK55 pic.twitter.com/HOqtOEoanH
Police in Bradenton, Florida, tweeted: "We are deeply saddened and mourn the loss of our dear friend Gary Tibbetts. Gary was a great supporter of #BradentonPD, and all of law enforcement. He was a dedicated and tireless advocate for the community he proudly served."
We are deeply saddened and mourn the loss of our dear friend Gary Tibbetts.
— Bradenton Police (@BradentonPD) July 24, 2020
Gary was a great supporter of #BradentonPD, and all of law enforcement. He was a dedicated and tireless advocate for the community he proudly served. pic.twitter.com/GBJqItSBnJ
Update: July 29
Dr. Joseph Costa, the chief of critical care at Baltimore's Mercy Medical Center, died from COVID-19 on July 25, his family said, according to The Baltimore Sun.
"He dedicated his life and career to caring for the sickest patients," Mercy Medical Center said in a statement. "And when the global pandemic came down upon us, Joe selflessly continued his work on the front lines—deeply committed to serving our patients and our City during this time of great need."
Costa "was beloved by his patients and their family members—known for his warm and comforting bedside manner as well as his direct and informative communication style," the statement added. "When he counseled our patients and families, he did so with great compassion and empathy. For all the nurses and staff who worked closely with Joe on the Intensive Care Unit, he was like an older brother that all admired and revered."
The Chief of Critical Care at Mercy Medical Center Dr.Joseph J. Costa passed away Saturday from COVID-19.https://t.co/vVHVsw4GuD
— ABC 7 News - WJLA (@ABC7News) July 27, 2020
Katherine "Kitty" Hoffman, a retired Florida State University professor, died from COVID-19 at the age of 105, her son told The Tallahassee Democrat.
Hoffman graduated from FSU in 1936 and gave her "time, talent and resources to @floridastate for over 75 years as a student, faculty member, administrator and alumna," the alumni association tweeted.
The FSU Alumni Association is mourning the loss of alumna Katherine Blood "Kitty" Hoffman (B.S. '36). Kitty has given her time, talent and resources to @floridastate for over 75 years as a student, faculty member, administrator and alumna. #SeminolesForever pic.twitter.com/PlBaXEUgyZ
— FSU Alumni Assoc. (@FSUAlumni) July 20, 2020
She spent nearly 40 years with the university's chemistry faculty, during which she authored several textbooks, served as the university's Dean of Women, and served as president of the Faculty Senate, The Tallahassee Democrat reported.
"Kitty Hoffman was truly a treasure. She loved FSU and dedicated her life to supporting students," FSU President John Thrasher tweeted. "As a pioneering scholar, faculty member and dean, she will be remembered for her great intellect, grace and dignity. We will all miss her."
Kitty Hoffman was truly a treasure. She loved FSU and dedicated her life to supporting students. As a pioneering scholar, faculty member and dean, she will be remembered for her great intellect, grace and dignity. We will all miss her.https://t.co/iidvlfZJQK
— President John Thrasher (@FSUPresThrasher) July 21, 2020
Oscar Rocha, a sheriff's deputy in Alameda County, California, died on July 23 from COVID-19.
Rocha, 57, spent 25 years with the department, mostly stationed at the Rene C. Davidson courthouse, said ABC San Francisco station KGO.
"He was never rattled," his wife told The Mercury News. "That's why he was so successful. He was able to handle anything, and he never lost patience."
"He put up a courageous fight to the end and will never be forgotten," the sheriff's office said.
Heartbreaking news to report tonight as Alameda County Sheriff's Deputy Oscar Rocha has passed away. Rocha had been battling COVID-19. Please keep his wife Maureen in your prayers. @abc7newsbayarea pic.twitter.com/nTAT96rKw1
— J.R. Stone (@jrstonelive) July 24, 2020
Update: July 25
Renee Dermott, a teacher at a public middle school in Florida, died on July 19.
The 52-year-old seemed to be improving the day before she died, her daughter, Nicole Dermott, told The Tampa Bay Times.
"She is up! her energy is up!" Nicole Dermott wrote on Facebook on the night of July 18, The Tampa Bay Times reported. "My mom will get to come home and I will never (maybe) argue with her again until she is 100."
Renee Dermott began working at Seven Springs Middle School last year, teaching English language arts and U.S. history.
"Our sympathy goes out to her family, and we share their sorrow and sense of loss," the school said said in a statement
"The world stopped, everything just stopped" — A Pasco teacher died over the weekend fighting COVID. Renee Dermott talked to her family Sunday morning, was ready to kick the virus and get back to class this fall. Hours later she went into cardiac arrest. @abcactionnews pic.twitter.com/xBYBa07mxP
— Andrea Lyon 🎞 (@andrealyonTV) July 20, 2020
George Longoria was a longtime security guard for Houston's Major League Soccer team, the Houston Dynamo.
I would like to express my gratitude to George Longoria for his commitment to this club. It saddest me to know you not longer with us, and I'll pray for your family during this difficult time. Rest In Peace #GeorgeForeverOrange pic.twitter.com/vTq3Ma3gQL
— Boniek Garcia (@boniek1426) July 11, 2020
Longoria was a "beloved family member," the Houston Dynamo tweeted on July 11. "George's warmth and kindness were always evident as he watched over the locker rooms and tunnel from Day 1 in 2006."
Longoria was "an amazing guy who always had encouraging words and a smile before every game and after," former Dynamo player Giles Barnes tweeted.
Soccer commentator Glenn Davis tweeted that the stadium "came to life with his smile, concern for others. It will never be the same going to that stadium for me."
Joshua Obra was a nurse at a long-term care facility and a lifetime lover of Disney, reported ABC Los Angeles station KABC.
Obra was known for his Instagram account where he posted insider Disney tips, KABC said.
As a nurse, Obra was "selfless" and "wanting to save others and care for others before himself," his sister Jasmine told KABC. "As a nurse, you don't run away from the fire, you run straight into the fire."
The 29-year-old died on July 6, his obituary said.
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Eyewitness @disneylandpanda, Joshua Obra. He passed away Monday from complications due to COVID-19. Josh was sweet & kind, a talented nurse & photographer. Sending condolences to his friends & family. #ourpandaforever pic.twitter.com/FEgmzDmKwy
— ABC7 Community (@abc7community) July 11, 2020
The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of ABC News.
Update: July 18
Vincent Buchinsky Jr., 70, was an artist and educator who "taught and inspired thousands" in his 30 years at New Jersey's Harrison High School and Sussex County Community College, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
After retiring, Buchinsky taught art classes to senior citizens.
Buchinsky had a bachelor of fine arts degree from Pratt University and a master of arts from Montclair State College. His art has been displayed at galleries in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California and Massachusetts, according to his obituary.
The inspiration for his art came from "the turbulence of life," he once said, according to his obituary. "Love, joy, happiness, forgiveness, redemption, birth and death …things that we all share."
Buchinsky is survived by his daughter, son and grandchildren.
We remember Vincent Buchinsky Jr., an award-winning artist and educator. For thirty years, he taught & inspired thousands of students in his classrooms in Harrison High School and Sussex County Community College. In retirement, he taught art classes to seniors. May God bless him. pic.twitter.com/YDvH77NHIC
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) July 8, 2020
Alice Guzman, stepmother of Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, and former HUD Secretary Julian Castro, died from the coronavirus on July 10.
"She was a wonderful woman. Always very warm and loving," Julian Castro told MSNBC. "Wonderful mother, wonderful wife. Words can't express the sorrow."
Julian Castro tweeted that his father also has COVID-19 and is "fighting" and "doing okay."
My stepmom, Alice Guzman, passed away today from COVID-19. She and my dad were for married for 31 years. Alice (pictured with my daughter) was a warm, loving person and we'll miss her incredibly.
— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) July 10, 2020
My heart goes out to the families who've lost loved ones to this terrible illness. pic.twitter.com/bZBMgzZgss
Abraham Vega, the sheriff of Lynn County, Texas, died from the coronavirus on July 11, according to the Texas Chief Deputies Association.
Vega was the president of the Chief Deputies Association from 2015 to 2016 and became Lynn County Sheriff in 2016, reported ABC Dallas affiliate WFAA. Vega was running for re-election and won the Republican primary in March 2020, WFAA said.
"Abraham was not only a kind hearted, genuine man, but also a pillar of our community and county," Lynn County Judge Mike Braddock said in a statement, according to Lubbock NBC affiliate KCBD. "His work as the Lynn County Sheriff didn't go unnoticed, everyone around him knew that was his passion. ... Sheriff was the title that fit him best"
First responders in the region are sharing tributes in honor of Lynn County Sheriff Abraham Vega, who passed away Saturday after battling COVID-19. https://t.co/rD1vrmMQFo pic.twitter.com/6LTMchq59n
— Jayme Lozano (@jaymelozano_AJ) July 12, 2020
Update: July 11
Isaac Flores, a 17-year-old from the San Antonio area, died on July 2, according to the Miracle League of San Antonio, a baseball league for children with special needs.
"His eyes would dance with joy every time he cracked the baseball for a hit. And he would take his time on the home run trot around the bases with a grin," the Miracle League of San Antonio said in a statement. "Just last month Issac showed what he was made of, as he graduated from Southwest Legacy HS with the Class of 2020. Issac finished what he had started, and his entire family couldn't be prouder."
"Words do not suffice to describe the sorrow all of us in the Miracle League of SA family feels after losing such a bright light way too soon," the league said.
Lynn Jones, a deputy with the Lake County Sheriff's Office in Florida, served the county for 13 years.
He was most recently assigned to the Lake County Jail.
"He loved his career, his agency and especially his family," the department said. "He was engaged and loved life. He is missed by all and will always be remembered for his amazing charisma."
Jones is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Erica McAdoo, a senior detention officer with the Los Angeles Police Department, died on July 3.
The 39-year-old is survived by her mother, according to a statement from California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
McAdoo was "loved, respected and admired," the LAPD's Custody Services Division said in a statement.
"Erica was a professional who embraced the challenges of custody work and the transition from custody officer to custody supervision. She was part of a new generation, raising the standard and level of expectations for our personnel," the statement said. "Always with a reassuring smile and calming disposition, Erica's presence - and absence was felt."
"If one of the ultimate goals in life is to make a difference in the lives of others, Erica accomplished that," the statement continued. "Our Division, and it's personnel are better because of her time and commitment."
Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff in McAdoo's honor, the governor's statement said.
State Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff in honor of Erica McAdoo, 39, an LAPD senior detention officer who died from COVID-19 https://t.co/LiSu5W5vGW
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) July 7, 2020
Update: July 4
Dr. Stephan Kamholz was the chairman of the Department of Medicine at Maimonides Medical Center in New York City.
Kamholz was on the front lines when the coronavirus hit his hospital in Brooklyn, but even when he fell ill, he continued to teach the doctors and nurses, his daughter, Sandra Kamholz Oza, told The New York Times.
"He was teaching up until his last breath," she told the newspaper.
"In addition to being an extraordinary doctor, he was kind, compassionate and always had a smile on his face," Maimonides Medical Center said in a statement. "He will be remembered as a mentor, brilliant teacher, leader and friend to all the lives that he touched personally and professionally."
Kamholz died on June 11 at 72, the Times said. He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Lynika Strozier, a dedicated worker at Chicago's Field Museum, died on June 7.
The 35-year-old dreamed of being a scientist, ABC Chicago station WLS reported.
"Lynika radiated a passion for science, research, teaching, and mentorship," museum officials said in a statement. "She was incredibly hardworking, compassionate, dedicated, and inspiring."
"Lynika joined the Field as a summer intern in 2009 and continued to work in various roles at the museum, including as a researcher in our DNA Lab," the museum's statement said. "In 2018, she completed two master's degrees: an M.Ed. in science education from the University of Illinois, Chicago, and an M.S. in biology from Loyola University Chicago."
"She was just starting to see the fruits of her hard work when her life was taken," her coworker, Erica Zahnle, told WLS. "It's tragic because there was so much more she was capable of doing."
Betty Tapley and Curtis Tapley were married for 53 years and died from COVID-19 within an hour of each other, according to ABC Dallas affiliate WFAA.
He was 79 and she was 80.
The Tapleys grew up in the same Illinois town but became a couple when they both moved to California when they were in their 20s, The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.
They settled in Forth Worth, Texas, in the 1980s.
The Tapleys died on June 18 and survived by their daughter and son, the Worth Star-Telegram reported.
The couple's final moments together were in the same hospital room, WFAA reported.Style: Main
"I don't know how one would have survived without the other," their daughter, Tricia, told the newspaper. "I've had so many people tell me, 'I'm so sorry you lost them both,' but I almost think it would have hurt worse. They're together. Neither one of them had to grieve for the other one."
Update: June 27
James Cornacchia, a husband, father and officer with Georgia Tech police, died on June 1, the department said.
Cornacchia was a member of the Georgia Tech police for 20 years.
The 42-year-old had dreamed of being a police officer since he was a child in upstate New York, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
On June 8, Cornacchia was promoted posthumously to investigator -- a position he had been working toward, the department.
Cornacchia also loved to spend time outdoors and give back to his community. He is survived by his wife and three sons, ages 15, 11 and 8, the newspaper said.
"On June 1, 2020, Officer James Cornacchia of the Georgia Tech Police Department (GTPD) lost his battle with Covid-19. He served the Tech community for nearly 20 years and most recently worked as part of our patrol unit. He was a loving father, husband, brother, son and friend. pic.twitter.com/GsYmEg16bO
— Georgia Tech Police (@GaTechPD) June 4, 2020
Officer Cornacchia was a valued member of the Georgia Tech community and will be sorely missed. pic.twitter.com/07ZyKhMEXM
— Georgia Tech Police (@GaTechPD) June 4, 2020
Nur Omar Mohamed, the father of Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., died from COVID-19 complications on June 15, the congresswoman said.
"No words can describe what he meant to me and all who knew him," she said in a statement.
Nur Omar Mohamed, who died at the age of 67, was a devoted dad and a feminist who supported his daughter's political dreams, the MInneapolis Star Tribune reported.
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) June 16, 2020
Surely we belong to God and to him shall we return.
It is with tremendous sadness and pain to say goodbye to my father, Nur Omar Mohamed. No words can describe what he meant to me and all who knew and loved him. pic.twitter.com/gb7q0gMXG2
Nur Omar Mohamed and his family fled from Somali to Kenya before seeking asylum in the U.S., The Washington Post reported. The family settled in Minneapolis in 1997 where Nur Omar Mohamed drove a taxi and later worked at a post office, the Post said.
The congresswoman has said she was raised mostly by her father and grandfather after her mother's death, the Post reported.
He was fluent in several languages and was considered an elder in Minneapolis' Somali community, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported.
Robert Washington, a security guard at a casino Lone Butte, Arizona, died on June 11, said his daughter, Lina Washington, a sports reporter at ABC Sacramento affiliate KXTV.
The 68-year-old was a devoted dad who loved to talk sports and even drove her cat to her in Sacramento, 11 hours away, Lina Washington told The Arizona Republic.
"My dad would always tell me to be strong," she tweeted. "He is the strongest man I'll ever know."
"He supported me through everything: dance, track, college dance team, broadcasting. He taught me so much about life," she said.
I can be an emotional person & my dad would always tell me to be strong. He is the strongest man I'll ever know. He supported me through everything: dance, track, college dance team, broadcasting. He taught me so much about life. He was very careful & his death was preventable. pic.twitter.com/qvfFeb7897
— Lina Washington (@LWashingtonTV) June 18, 2020
Update: June 20
Muriel Callender, a 84-year-old Brooklyn woman, died on May 3.
Callender was a retired claims investigator at Citibank after working there for three decades.
She was born in Barbados and briefly lived there before immigrating to the U.S. in the 1960s and eventually fell in love with New York City.
She is survived by her four children, 15 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
"Her laugh was infectious and she always made us smile when recounting stories from her life," granddaughter Asraiel Harewood told ABC News. "She had a knack for finding humor in the ordinary and could truly brighten anyone's day."
"She is deeply missed," she said.
Obinna Eke, who moved to the U.S. from Nigeria when he as 22 years old, was a patient care technician at a Newark, New Jersey, hospital.
Eke was pursuing a degree in pre-nursing and sociology at Bloomfield College in New Jersey, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
He was set to graduate this spring, Murphy said, and his mother was going to visit from California to celebrate, The Washington Post reported.
The 42-year-old, who was working full-time while working to school, died on April 5, the Post said.
Thank you @GovMurphy for honoring and remembering Obi. https://t.co/9BNqS65T3X
— University Hospital (@UnivHospNewark) June 12, 2020
Deputy Juan Menchaca was a 14-year veteran of the Harris County Sheriff's Office in Texas.
The 70-year-old was also a husband and father of seven, the sheriff's office said.
Before joining the Harris County Sheriff's Office, Mencaca served the Nacogdoches Police Department and spent 18 years as a Texas parole officer, the sheriff's office said.
"Deputy Menchaca was a beloved member of our Harris County Sheriff's Office family, and he will be terribly missed by all of us who had the honor of knowing him," Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a statement. "I ask the entire community to lift up Deputy Menchaca, his wife, Melissa, and their entire family in their prayers."
"I also ask that we all honor him by continuing to do our part to stop the spread of this terrible virus," Gonzalez said.
It is with heavy hearts that we announced the passing of Deputy Juan Menchaca, 70, who died on Saturday after a courageous battle against #COVID19.
— HCSOTexas (@HCSOTexas) June 13, 2020
Deputy Menchaca was a 14-year veteran of HCSO & was most recently assigned to the courts division https://t.co/6nn6ny7OTG. #HouNews pic.twitter.com/PnKAxCJHlK
Update: June 13
Thomas Cooke Jr., a two-term mayor of East Orange, New Jersey, died on May 18 at the age of 90.
Cooke served as East Orange mayor from 1978 to 1986, becoming the second African American elected to the position, according to the city.
"Mayor Thomas Cooke, Jr. was a man of dignity, service and pride," Mayor Ted Green said in a statement. "He served our country and our city with such great honor and he set the tone in our city as a pioneering, no-nonsense leader who pulled no punches and set high expectations for everyone around him. From fighting for the rights of tenants and homeowners to stabilizing the tax base and recruiting businesses to invest in East Orange, Mayor Cooke was first and foremost a community advocate who put the people's needs first."
"His contributions and legacy in our community will not be forgotten," Green said.
We remember Thomas Cooke, Jr., the late Mayor of the City of East Orange. Mayor Cooke led a life of service to his community – serving in the Navy during the Korean War, as an educator in the Newark Public Schools, and as Mayor for two terms. May God bless him. pic.twitter.com/E96RImWsXX
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 29, 2020
Armit Harrison, died on May 12 at the age of 99.
Harrison enlisted in the Marine Corps after Pearl Harbor and received the Purple Heart for his role in World War II, according to his obituary.
He lived in Hamilton Square, New Jersey, for most of his life, running his father's retail milk business and then working for Office Specialties Inc., his obituary said.
Harrison was a committed volunteer for organizations including Meals on Wheels and the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, his obituary said.
Harrison was predeceased by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 68 years. He is survived by his four sons.
We remember Armit Harrison, Sr., a proud member of our Greatest Generation. Armit served in the Marines and was awarded the Purple Heart after serving in the Pacific Theater. He raised four sons with his wife and was active in his community. May God bless Armit and his family. pic.twitter.com/lvnZxb7pyG
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) June 1, 2020
William Morris, the New York City Police Department's Chief of Transportation, died from COVID-19 on June 6 after nearly 39 years of service to the city, said NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea.
Morris was 61 years old, said ABC New York station WABC.
Former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton tweeted, "I had the good fortune and pleasure to work with him from 2014-2016, and award him his third star while he was serving as Manhattan South Borough Chief."
"The third star was an acknowledgement of his exemplary performance in that most difficult position," Bratton said. "He lived his Department, his City and his family. I extend to them my sincerest condolences and thanks for his faithful service."
"NYC was a much different place in 1981 when Chief Billy Morris came on the Job," tweeted Terence Monahan, NYPD's Chief of Department. "He was always proud to work alongside the greatest men & women in law enforcement to help turn around our city — that's his legacy. We are all grateful to Billy for his service. Rest In Peace, friend."
NYC was a much different place in 1981 when Chief Billy Morris came on the Job. He was always proud to work alongside the greatest men & women in law enforcement to help turn around our city — that's his legacy. We are all grateful to Billy for his service. Rest In Peace, friend. pic.twitter.com/nJdYjRZRaN
— Chief Terence Monahan (@NYPDChiefofDept) June 8, 2020
Hecky Powell, the owner of beloved Hecky's Barbecue in Evanston, Illinois, died on May 22 at the age of 71, the Chicago Tribune reported.
Hecky's Barbecue is a staple for the students at Northwestern University and Powell loved to be there for the students according to the Tribune.
The Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion at Northwestern called him "a local legend."
Powell "was not only a great friend of the University, he represented very best of the Evanston community."
Hecky Powell, an Evanston legend, dies at 71 of COVID-19 https://t.co/9Oi6ecwca3
— Chicago Tribune (@chicagotribune) May 23, 2020
One Facebook user wrote on the restaurant's page, "Hecky's was a part of my childhood. I met Mr. Powell a couple of times. He was the sweetest nicest man. His loss leaves a huge hole in the lives of kids in the Evanston community. "
Another Facebook user wrote, "My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Powell family. Mr. Hecky was such a kind spirit. Truly one of kind."
Marny Xiong, Board Chair of Saint Paul, Minnesota, Public Schools, died on June 7, said Saint Paul Public Schools Superintendent Joe Gothard.
She was a lifelong resident of Saint Paul and graduated from the public school system herself.
"Those of us who were fortunate to know Marny and work with her have been inspired by her tireless efforts to support our students, fight for inclusion and never give in to those who would divide us," said a statement from Saint Paul Public Schools and the Board of Education. "She was a proud Hmong woman and a respected leader throughout the State of Minnesota. Marny was passionate about uplifting students; she was focused on equity; and she never stopped her efforts to make sure all students and families were welcome and represented."
"We will honor her by continuing her fight to break down and remove barriers to and within our educational system," the statement continued.
Superintendent Gothard tweeted, "Marny's fierce determination for equity & her loving heart will be with me forever."
Good morning @SPPS_News Community – it is with the heaviest of hearts that I share with you SPPS Board Chair, Marny Xiong passed away this morning. Through her extended illness with Covid-19, Chair Xiong has continued to provide me strength. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/WTfJFOh8OT
— Joe Gothard, Ed.D. (@JoeGothard) June 7, 2020
Update: May 30
Joel Revzen was an assistant conductor with the Metropolitan Opera orchestra.
"Joel made his Met conducting debut in 2017 leading performances of Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin," the Met said in a statement. "As an assistant conductor, he shared his profound expertise and musicality in rehearsals as a thoughtful, kind, and supportive presence that endeared him to colleagues."
Revzen, who was 74, is survived by his daughter and his wife, Cindy Rezven.
"Joel lived a life full of light – he lived in the joy of being alive, and he gave everyone one he met some of his special light," Cindy Revzen told ABC News. "Challenges were a specialty of his… he never met one that he didn't love to put his hand to… he truly had the heart of an adventurer. A heart with boundless kindness and generosity, ready to take anyone on that adventure with him. He made music from the heart, and he led from his heart."
"He was a truly dedicated conductor and teacher (tough, but always incredibly supportive)," she continued. "The lessons he taught us - about music, about life, about being a good human in the world - remain with all the people whose lives he touched."
John Von Sternberg died on May 7 at age 79.
He was beloved in his town of Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, where he worked in real estate and was a decade-long volunteer for the fire department, The New York Times reported.
🙏🏽Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of John Von Sternberg, who served at Mountain Lakes Volunteer Fire Department. We are forever grateful for John's commitment and service. https://t.co/obdoG9RXrW
— New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (@NJFireSafety) May 12, 2020
He even was chief of the Mountain Lakes Volunteer Fire Department in 1976 and 1977, and in 2017, he was given a Lifetime Community Service Award for 60 years of service, according to his obituary.
Von Sternberg is survived by his wife of 56 years, his daughter, two granddaughters and a great-grandson.
Fred Westbrook was a former president of the Detroit Department of Transportation's bus drivers union.
He represented about 500 city workers until his retirement, The Detroit Free Press reported.
I was saddened to learn about the passing of Fred Westbrook, who lost his battle with COVID-19, not long after he retired as president of the DDOT bus drivers union. Fred was great partner and advocate for the safety of his members. He leaves a great legacy and will be missed. pic.twitter.com/YG8KSG9xx2
— Mayor Mike Duggan (@MayorMikeDuggan) May 24, 2020
"Fred was great partner and advocate for the safety of his members," tweeted Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. "He leaves a great legacy and will be missed."
"Fred was a strong voice for the people of the City of Detroit and DDOT bus drivers," Brenda Jones, Detroit's City Council President, said in a statement on Facebook. "Please respect social distancing protocols, wear your masks and wash your hands. I know this is a hard time for us all but we have lost too many friends, family members and pillars of our communities. We owe it to their legacies to be responsible and to prevent these tragedies in the future."
Westbrook is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren, said Jones.
Update: May 27
Annie Glenn, who was married for 73 years to the late pioneering astronaut John Glenn, died from the coronavirus on May 19 at the age of 100, The Associated Press reported.
She rose to prominence in her own right, overcoming a stutter to become an advocate for people with speech disorders, the AP said. The American Speech–Language–Hearing Association launched an Annie Glenn Award for people who overcome a communication disorder.
NASA said in a statement, "She provided an example for other women who followed to face the challenges of being part of our nation's space program, and the stress of having spouses in combat. She stood steadfastly by her husband as he took to space once again as the oldest person to orbit Earth, even as she continued her own lifelong public service on behalf of children, the elderly, and the disabled."
Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown tweeted, "Annie Glenn has made Ohio proud all her life – as an advocate, a philanthropist, a mother and partner and as a friend. She will be remembered for her work to lift others up, including those who shared her struggles with communicative disorders."
Her husband's fellow pioneering astronaut, Buzz Aldrin, added, "Annie was a fierce advocate for those with speech disorders and had the grace of a butterfly. She represents the very best our country has to offer."
I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Annie Glenn, the wife of my dear friend and space legend John Glenn. Annie was a fierce advocate for those with speech disorders and had the grace of a butterfly. She represents the very best our country has to offer. Godspeed, Annie. pic.twitter.com/VqQOsyvzRJ
— Buzz Aldrin (@TheRealBuzz) May 20, 2020
Dr. James Anthony Mahoney, a beloved Brooklyn pulmonologist, died from COVID-19 on April 27.
Mahoney worked day shifts at University Hospital of Brooklyn and overnight at Kings County Hospital Center --- both of which primarily serve low-income, black families. He started as a student at the hospital's teaching college in 1982 and never left.
The 62-year-old was supposed to retire in January after nearly four decades on the job, but delayed retirement to continue helping patients suffering during the pandemic.
"Even when he was sick, he was still checking up on his patients and calling them to make sure they were OK," said former colleague Michelle King. He had a heart of gold...everybody was VIP to him."
His older brother, Dr. Melvin Mahoney, who retired in 2014, said that he, among other family members, friends and colleagues, urged him to bow out considering the risks amid the pandemic.
"He stayed there because they needed him," Melvin Mahoney told ABC News.
Paul McCurrie, a New Jersey assemblyman, and his wife, Dolores "Liz" McCurrie, were married for more than 60 years. They died within days of each other, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
Paul McCurrie, 91, served in New Jersey's State Assembly from 1962 to 1964, The New Jersey Globe reported. He went on to be town attorney in Kearney, a Democratic county committeeman in Kearny's 4th Ward, and president of the Hudson County Bar Association, the Globe reported.
We remember Assemblyman Paul McCurrie and Delores McCurrie, who were married for more than 60 years and passed within days of each other. We keep Paul and Liz in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless them both. pic.twitter.com/tV1amu3Mm4
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 19, 2020
Dolores McCurrie, 91, a New Jersey native, was a beloved friend, mother and grandmother.
She attended secretarial school and worked for Prudential Insurance before marrying Paul McCurrie, her obituary said.
She died on May 12, her obituary said. Her husband died on May 15, the Globe reported.
The couple is survived by their children and grandson.
Update: May 23
Darrin Adams, a student and custodian at Wayne State University in Michigan, was known for sitting in the front row of his classes.
. @WayneSociology faculty and classmates remember Darrin Adams, a #WayneState Warrior gone too soon: https://t.co/PnfXjpW4A2 💚💛 pic.twitter.com/h8eZhbFT9v
— Wayne State College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (@WayneStateCLAS) April 29, 2020
Sociology professor Sarah Swider called his "thirst for knowledge" "inspiring."
"I remember teaching the class about Marx and his concept of alienation. When I asked if anyone in the class could relate, it was silent, but then he raised his hand," Swider wrote on a memory page for Adams. "He told the class he worked as a janitor on campus. He talked about the way his job was organized and how it created distance from his work, from the students for whom he cleaned after, and from those with whom he worked. After he talked about his alienation, hands went up across the room as others were inspired to talk about their jobs and alienation."
Swider added that Adams "spread his joy, understanding, and desire to engage in humanity's struggles with dignity."
Adams has been honored with a posthumous degree in sociology.
Michael Clegg, a veteran sergeant with the Newark, New Jersey, police, died on May 10, according to Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose.
Clegg, 53, had been a member of the Newark police since May 1993.
"The loss of Sergeant Clegg is felt deeply throughout our ranks," Chief of Police Darnell Henry said in a statement. "He was a consistently reliable police officer and was known as an excellent supervisor."
We have lost another #Hero. @NewarkNJPolice Sergeant Michael Clegg, a 27-year veteran, succumbed to Coronavirus complications last night. He is the 10th New Jersey officer to die from the virus. Pray for his family, friends, and Department. pic.twitter.com/rUbz4ukhLf
— New Jersey State PBA (@NJSPBA) May 11, 2020
"Sergeant Clegg blended the finest traditions from over a quarter century in policing with today's best practices of impeccable community service and leadership of other officers," Henry said.
He is survived by his mother, sister, nephew and nieces.
Scott Geiger, 47, was a lifelong EMT, joining the profession at the age of 17.
For the last 17 years, Geiger worked for Atlantic Mobile Health. The group called him "a hero" who "is sorely missed."
Geiger's second passion was the New York Jets, New Jersey Gov Phil Murphy said.
He also loved the Jersey Shore and spending time with his goddaughter, according to his obituary.
Geiger is survived by his mother, father and brother.
Morris Hood, a former member of the Michigan state House and Senate, died from the coronavirus on May 11, according to The Detroit Free Press.
Hood, a Democrat who was term-limited out of office two years ago, was popular with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, said MLive. He was known for always keeping calm, even during heating debates, MLive reported.
Michigan Rep. Rashida Tlaib tweeted, "So many of us are better people because of Senator Morris Hood III. ... Morris was someone that we could count on to do the right thing & he did with such love for his people."
Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell tweeted, "Morris was a brother to me. He loved everyone but he loved Angela with his whole heart and soul and now he is at home with her."
Morris was a brother to me. He loved everyone but he loved Angela with his whole heart and soul and now he is at home with her. When John died, there was no one who understood better than he, losing half of yourself, and he just was there as a rock.https://t.co/ChYh4bdzo5
— Rep. Debbie Dingell (@RepDebDingell) May 12, 2020
Hood's first wife, Angela, died in 2013, according to MLive.
"When [husband] John [Dingell] died, there was no one who understood better than he, losing half of yourself, and he just was there as a rock," Dingell said.
"He did so much good for so many, never stopped working for others and our communities will deeply miss him," Digell wrote.
Yasmin Pena was a 12th grader at the Waterbury Arts Magnet School in Connecticut.
The 18-year-old, known as Yazy, wanted to study theater and become a fashion designer, her sister, Madeline Pena, told The Hartford Courant.
"Yasmin was very involved in Theater and the performing arts. She always had a smile on her face and was always laughing," the school said in a statement. "Her teachers describe her as kind, sweet and an amazing young lady. She will be missed deeply."
The teen started feeling ill in February. Her family doesn't know how she contracted COVID-19, they told the Courant.
She died on Easter, the Courant reported.
Jerome Rice, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was a former sergeant with the U.S. Marine Corps and a detective sergeant with New Jersey's Mountainside Police Department.
Rice was one of the "frozen Chosin" -- a dangerous and critical battle at the Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War.
Rice was "part of the flight crews and supply transports that delivered not only desperately needed supplies, but also evacuated American soldiers. For his service he was awarded numerous ribbons and medals," New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said.
We remember Jerome Rice, of Elizabeth, a former @USMC Sergeant and @Mountainside_pd Detective Sergeant. He leaves behind his wife, Audrey, their 5 children, 21 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Jerry was an American hero. May God bless him and his family. pic.twitter.com/a8yfUVtUah
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 13, 2020
He went on to serve 34 years with the police department in Mountainside, New Jersey, where he was known "as a cop's cop," said Murphy.
Rice is survived by his five children, 21 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
One of Rice's sons and grandson went on to serve with the Marine Corps, Murphy added.
Joan Swanson, of Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, was 89 years old.
She grew up in the Bronx and was working as a secretary when she met her husband. They shared nearly 50 years together and raised a son and daughter, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said.
We remember Joan Swanson, a longtime resident of Ho-Ho-Kus. She was a member of both The Community Church of Ho-Ho-Kus and the Ho-Ho-Kus Woman's Club. Joan volunteered her time for Meals on Wheels and served as a Cub Scout leader. She led a life of love. pic.twitter.com/h82trQdg11
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 18, 2020
Swanson was known for her volunteer work, but "her favorite title was that of 'mom,'" and she "opened her home and heart" to her children's friends, Murphy said.
"If they say it takes a village to raise a child, she raised a village of children," Murphy said.
Update: May 16
Joseph Cavalieri, 93, of Kendall Park, New Jersey, was a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II and the Korean War, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Cavalieri then spent most of his career at Vermont Marble Co. He then went on to consult for smaller New Jersey-based marble firms, according to the Rutland Herald.
The most important part of his life was his family.
Cavalieri's wife of 66 years died 10 months before him. Cavalieri is survived by his four children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Joseph Cavalieri served our nation as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during both WWII and the Korean War. He was a member of both St. Augustine of Canterbury Church in Kendall Park and VFW Post 9111. We thank him for his service, and we keep him in our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/ch696lxfLz
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 6, 2020
In 1957, Corliss Henry became the first black nurse on the staff at Muhlenberg Hospital in Plainfield, New Jersey.
Henry died from the coronavirus on April 14 at the age of 95, The New York Times reported.
After 11 years at Muhlenberg Hospital, Henry went on to become a nursing instructor, according to New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
She also earned a master's degree in education at New York University, Murphy said.
In February 2018, during Black History Month, Gov. Murphy presented Henry with a proclamation "to recognize her tremendous life of service."
Henry was predeceased by her husband. She is survived by her two sons.
In 1957, Corliss Henry was hired at Muhlenberg Hospital, becoming the first African American nurse on their staff. She earned her Master's degree in Education at NYU while teaching full-time at Middlesex County College. A life well-lived. We will miss her. pic.twitter.com/yY6Bf85k9l
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 5, 2020
Nyla Moore, a 22-year-old Chicago mother, died on May 1.
Moore was the daughter of two Chicago city workers and was a stay-at-home mom who dreamed of becoming a teacher one day.
During the pandemic, she often babysat for family members who are essential workers.
"She was the baby of six," her mother, Nikki Collins-Moore, told ABC News. "She loved music and she had a knack for people. She loved people."
She leaves behind a 2-year-old son.
Mark Remolino, 59, of Staten Island, was an inspector with New York City's Fire Department.
As a member of the Fire Alarm Inspection Unit, Remolino supervised and trained new inspectors and engineers.
"Without question, Inspector Remolino's work saved countless lives," said FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro. "Our entire Department mourns his loss."
Remolino is survived by his wife and four children.
Charles "Rob" Roberts was a "beloved" police officer in Glenn Ridge, New Jersey, the department said.
The 45-year-old died on May 11.
In 2000, Roberts joined the police department in Glenn Ridge, and he and his wife raised their three children in the town.
Roberts was a "shining example of an officer dedicated to serving the community" and "was known by face or name by both children and adults," the department said in a statement.
"He held the honor of being the most senior officer within the patrol division and served as a detective and a field training officer within the department," the department said.
"Rob never missed an opportunity to support law enforcement races such as the Law Enforcement Torch Run which benefits the Special Olympics and the Tunnel to Towers Run honoring the lives of first responders lost on September 11, 2001."
"Rob was a mentor within the department and the entire Borough; and today we have truly lost a hero to all," the department continued. "Rest easy our brother in blue, you will never be forgotten and have left a permanent mark on each life you have touched. To have known you is to have loved you.
Raymond Scholwinski, a sergeant with the Harris County Sheriff's Office in Texas, died on May 6.
Scholwinski, 70, started as a reserve deputy with the sheriff's office in 1979. He was a full-time officer for 26 years.
It is with heavy hearts that the Harris County Sheriff's Office announces the passing of Sgt. Raymond Scholwinski.
— HCSOTexas (@HCSOTexas) May 7, 2020
Sgt. Scholwinski, 70, passed away this afternoon after a courageous battle against the #COVID19 virus. https://t.co/IiTMDeFmA3 #HouNews pic.twitter.com/S0VVhJi5Pd
Scholwinski is survived by his wife and four children, reported ABC Houston station KTRK.
"Sgt. Scholwinski represented the best of the Harris County Sheriff's Office family," Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. "Ray consistently delivered for the people of Harris County. We will miss our brother and we will honor his legacy of service."
We pay tribute to our fallen friend and colleague, Sgt. Raymond Scholwinski, as we escort his remains from Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, where he courageously battled COVID-19.
— HCSOTexas (@HCSOTexas) May 8, 2020
Funeral arrangements are being finalized and will be announced soon. #hounews pic.twitter.com/9frMalTd9s
Nikima Thompson, 41, was a communications operator III with the Broward Sheriff's Office in Florida.
Thompson, a Miami native, joined the Broward Sheriff's Office in Sept. 2003 as a communications operator I. She was promoted to communications operator II in Feb. 2005 and to communications operator III in July 2006.
.@bsosherifftony and the men and women of BSO are immensely saddened by the passing of Communications Operator III Nikima Thompson. Nikima, 41, had been hospitalized and battling COVID-19 for several weeks after testing positive on April 2. #wewillneverforget #alwaysTeamBSO pic.twitter.com/is6w1g1iKb
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) May 5, 2020
"Nikima is a long standing veteran of our team, and she is loved by so many who have had the pleasure of working alongside her," said Angela Mize, director of the sheriff's office regional communications division.
Update: May 8
Paul Cary, a paramedic from Aurora, Colorado, who came to New York City to help during the crisis, died from the coronavirus, according to New York City's mayor Bill de Blasio.
After three decades of serving the people of Aurora, "he made the choice to come here and save lives," de Blasio said.
"Paul gave his life for us," the mayor said, calling him "heroic."
De Blasio said a memorial will be created in New York City to honor him and "to remember all those who came to our defense."
Cary, 66, is survived by two sons and four grandchildren, reported ABC Denver affiliate KMGH.
It is worth great sadness we inform you one of our recent Retired Fire Medics, Paul Cary has passed away from #coronavirus. Paul ran his final alarm volunteering in NY to help fight this virus. Rest in peace brother, we'll take it from here. pic.twitter.com/Gjb5HqAVvU
— Aurora Firefighters (@IAFFLocal1290) May 1, 2020
Michael Conners, 58, was a Newark, New Jersey, police officer who worked for the department since December 1993.
"Officer Conners was a pillar in the Newark Police Division," said Chief of Police Darnell Henry. "He was known for his consistency as an insightful guardian of the community and as a reliable colleague."
"He was an integral part of our Police Division's family," added Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose. "This painful passing is felt throughout our ranks."
Conners has two daughters, two sons and six grandchildren.
Newark Mayor Baraka and Public Safety Director Ambrose Regretfully Announce Passing of Police Officer Michael Conners. The 26 Year Newark Police Officer Died Due to Coronavirus Complications. Rest in Peace, Dear Brother. We Salute You. https://t.co/CGHfo7hboI via @Nextdoor pic.twitter.com/CiSkNg5lZs
— Dept. Public Safety (@NewarkNJPolice) May 1, 2020
Donald DiPetrillo was the Seminole Tribe of Florida Fire Chief and a "true public safety icon in the South Florida fire community for nearly half century," Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony said.
DiPetrillo, 70, was an assistant fire chief in Fort Lauderdale from 1973 to 2001, reported ABC Miami affiliate WPLG. He was the fire chief in Davie, Florida, from 2001 and 2007 and had been the Seminole Tribe of Florida's fire chief since 2008, WPLG said.
Florida Congressman Alcee Hastings added, "Chief DiPetrillo will be remembered as a hero for his bravery and many accomplishments throughout the course of over five decades of service."
He is survived by his son, girlfriend, mother and brothers.
Lillian Eckstein, 93, was a Czechoslovakia-born Holocaust survivor who moved to the U.S. as a teenager.
"I never met a person as interesting as Bubby Lillian," Eckstein's grandson, Eitan Levine, told ABC News. "She was smart, ferocious, cunning, stubborn, caring and full of energy."
"She didn't need fancy degrees or any formal training to make it in America -- she just needed her own brain and unmatched work ethic," Levine said.
Eckstein worked in real estate and finance as she and her husband raised two children. She is predeceased by her husband but survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild.
"She was a dominant real estate mogul and a loving human that would spoil her grandchildren with compliments any chance should could get," Levine said.
"I also remember her sitting my 10-year-old sister down at the table and explaining how to read a quarterly report from Morgan Stanley," Levine added. "Truly, there will never be anyone else like her."
Gerald Glisson was the principal of operations at Eastside High School in Patterson, New Jersey.
"Dr. Glisson was a dedicated and caring educator who touched the lives of so many people during his 20 years working in Paterson Public Schools," said Superintendent of Schools Eileen Shafer.
Glisson also served as athletic director.
Last night we lost someone dear to the Eastside Ghost Family. Our dear Principal/Athletic Director Gerald Glisson. A true warrior and legend in his community. We will continue your legacy big guy. 😔😢🙏🏾#ALLUSWE pic.twitter.com/HglkVtUNXU
— Paterson Eastside Athletics (@GhostAthletics_) May 4, 2020
Eastside High School's football team tweeted: "G pushed everybody in GhostAthletics to be the best they can be, he did a great job in putting the best staffs together for all sports and created a family environment for all of the school sports."
"We will keep striving to make him proud," the tweet continued. "He pushed excelling in the classroom as much as he pushed succeeding on the field because his main objective were to get his athletes to get an education and be the best adults that they can be in society."
Glisson is survived by his wife of 21 years and his daughters, ages 17 and 12, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
New Jersey doctor Harvey Hirsch was a "beloved" New Jersey pediatrician and a "fixture at Monmouth Medical Center," Gov. Phil Murphy said.
"He was known for his kindness and compassion," Murphy said, "and the respect he showed his patients and their families."
Despite the risk to himself, Hirsch "insisted on continuing to care for every patient" who needed help during the pandemic, the governor said.
Dr. Harvey Hirsch was a beloved pediatrician at the Center for Health Education, Medicine & Dentistry in Lakewood. Despite concerns about his chance of being exposed to #COVID19, he insisted on continuing to care for every patient who came to help. May his memory be a blessing. pic.twitter.com/TvZIiSt05R
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 1, 2020
John "Jack" Taylor, 84, was a longtime Republican legislator in Colorado.
He served in the Colorado House of Representatives from 1992 to 2000 and then was elected to the state Senate in 2000, serving two terms, according to the Steamboat Pilot & Today.
"He was a Republican, but he was in the center where he was able to cooperate and get along with Democrats and Independents and Republicans," friend Vance Halvorson, told the newspaper.
"He was very conscious of being fiscally responsible," Halvorson added.
"His legacy is really serving the people," Geneva, his wife of 46 years, told the Steamboat Pilot. "That's what he enjoyed the most, and helping his constituents resolve problems."
"His legacy of public service for NW Colorado and our whole state is felt at the Capitol and back home," Colorado state Rep. Dylan Roberts tweeted.
Update: May 1
Mark Barisonek, an employee of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), died on April 28, the agency said.
Barisonek was a TSA employee for 16 years and most recently worked at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
"Mark was one of Newark's veteran officers in the checked baggage screening operation, always coming to duty with a positive attitude and willing to help out and support the mission," the TSA said. "Mark was truly a kind person and was willing to do anything for his peers. He was a professional, dedicated and a well-liked teammate."
Barisonek leaves behind his wife, five children and three grandchildren.
Wogene Debele gave birth to a baby boy while battling the coronavirus. She died before she had the chance to meet him, according to ABC's Washington, D.C., affiliate WJLA.
Debele, of Takoma Park, Maryland, is survived by her husband and three other children, WJLA said.
Maryland state Rep. Jamie Raskin tweeted, "Takoma Park mourns the terrible loss of Wogene Debele, an amazing woman and radiant, loving mother of four. Her memory will always be a beautiful blessing to our community."
Takoma Park mourns the terrible loss of Wogene Debele, an amazing woman and radiant, loving mother of four. Her memory will always be a beautiful blessing to our community. https://t.co/uAV52DcaTA
— Rep. Jamie Raskin (@RepRaskin) April 24, 2020
Deloris Dockery, 60, of Union, New Jersey, was a "champion and role model for countless women living with HIV," New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said.
She learned she was HIV positive in 1994 but Dockery "never allowed that diagnoses to become a stigma," Murphy said.
Dockery was a leader at the Hyacinth AIDS Foundation, where she worked for 15 years. She was also the first woman to chair the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS.
She was "active in multiple advocacy groups for those living with HIV and quickly garnered a reputation" that was recognized around the world," Murphy said.
"She was a hero," Murphy said.
Deloris Dockery was a champion and role-model for countless women living with HIV. She was a leader at the Hyacinth AIDS Foundation, where she worked for the past 15 years. She was the first woman to chair the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS. May God bless Deloris. pic.twitter.com/JeMWvREE7f
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 30, 2020
Harvey Feldman, 91, died from the coronavirus weeks after the same virus took the life of his wife of 66 years, Margit.
Harvey Feldman was born and raised in Brooklyn, and when he was in a hospital recovering from tuberculosis, he met Margit, who was a Holocaust survivor, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
The Feldmans built a home in New Jersey and raised two children, one of whom is now a doctor, Murphy said.
Harvey Feldman owned the Doctors Medical Laboratory in Bound Brook, New Jersey. He "also found time to support Margaret in her work against prejudice and for tolerance and joined her as an advocate for holocaust and genocide education," Murphy said.
Harvey Feldman was the owner of Doctors Medical Laboratory in Bound Brook. Two weeks ago, we remembered his beloved wife, Margit. They fell in love at first sight, and were married for 66 years. May both their memories be a blessing to their children, and to us all. pic.twitter.com/6pFaaZJXfg
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 29, 2020
Jerry Givens was Virginia's chief executioner from 1982 to 1999, and later became an anti-death penalty activist, CNN reported.
He died on April 13 at the age of 67, CNN reported.
Givens said he presided over 62 executions during his time as chief executioner, according to The Associated Press.
"He was one of the few former executioners willing to speak about his experiences with the public," Michael Stone, executive director of Virginians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, told the AP. "He spoke wherever, whenever and to whomever he could, trying to explain why the death penalty needs to end."
Jay-Natalie La Santa, just 5 months old, died from the coronavirus, her mother and the FDNY Hispanic Society confirmed.
"My baby girl was so beautiful," her mom, Lindsey La Santa, told ABC News.
Jay-Natalie's father, Jerel La Santa, is a New York City firefighter.
He had just finished his first shift when he learned his daughter was in the emergency room, The New York Post reported.
After weeks in the hospital, Jay-Natalie died on April 20, the Post reported.
The little girl wore a rose-gold dress with glitter roses at her funeral -- the dress she was supposed to wear to her father's firefighter graduation, the Post said.
The Rev. Rufus McClendon Jr. was a pastor at the First-Park Baptist Church in Plainfield, New Jersey.
He was the head chaplain of the East Jersey State Prison from 1994 until 2008.
"Every person who was in that prison was made in the image of God and he knew that and treated people like he knew that," the Rev. Seth Kaper-Dale, who was mentored by McClendon, told NJ.com. "There was complete respect from him to the inmates, the inmates to him."
He also spent 28 years as an educator with Newark Public Schools, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
Reverend Rufus McClendon Jr. was pastor of First-Park Baptist Church in Plainfield. He was an educator in the Newark Public Schools for 28 years and served as head chaplain of East Jersey State Prison from 1994 until 2008. May God bless his memory, and his family. pic.twitter.com/C0URCUULL9
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 25, 2020
McClendon died on April 9, NJ.com reported. He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Richard Seaberry, 63, was an EMT in New York City.
He was a 30-year veteran who responded to rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center, according to New York City's Fire Department.
"For three decades, EMT Seaberry bravely served the City of New York, responding to thousands of medical emergencies. He was there so often during a New Yorker's most desperate moments," said FDNYT Commissioner Daniel Nigro.
"He was known as a kind soul, a true gentleman, and a dedicated partner," the department said.
Seaberry is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Gary Walker, 53, was a police officer in Bloomingdale, New Jersey, for 20 years.
He previously was a firefighter and assistant chief of a fire company.
The Bloomingdale Police Department described him as a "selfless, dedicated officer" with a "golden heart," who "flourished by bringing people together."
Walker is survived by his wife and daughter.
In 1997, Gary Walker became a firefighter in Oakland, Bergen County, eventually rising to be the assistant chief of Fire Company No. 2. He served as a patrol officer in the Bloomingdale Police Department for over 20 years. Our hearts are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/3qayfhze3I
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 28, 2020
Thomas Ward, 60, a mechanics supervisor with New York City's Fire Department, died on April 27.
"He was known as a 'gentle giant' who greeted everyone with a smile," the FDNY said.
Ward spent 26 years with the FDNY and most recently was a supervisor of the ambulance shop, responsible for the repair and maintenance of all FDNY ambulances. Ward also spent 32 years as a volunteer firefighter in Massapequa, New York.
He is survived by two sons.
Update: April 24
Bennie Adkins, a Vietnam veteran who was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama in 2014, died on April 17, The Washington Post reported.
He was 86 years old.
Adkins had three deployments to Vietnam as a Green Beret, and his Medal of Honor citation said he showed "extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty," the Post reported.
Adkins endured a "38-hour battle and 48-hours of escape and evasion," the citation said, according to the Post. "Adkins fought with mortars, machine guns, recoilless rifles, small arms and hand grenades, killing an estimated 135 to 175 of the enemy and sustaining 18 different wounds."
Adkins' wife of 62 years died last year, the Post reported. He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mohammed Chowdhury, an NYPD traffic section commander died on April 19, tweeted NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea.
"Mohammed, who would have marked 30 years of NYPD service next week, was revered by members of our Transportation Bureau," Shea tweeted. "The prayers of a thankful city go out to his family & coworkers."
Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, mother of Minnesota Timberwolves player Karl-Anthony Towns, died on April 13 at the age of 58, reported USA Today.
"The matriarch of the Towns family, she was an incredible source of strength; a fiery, caring and extremely loving person who touched everyone she met," a family spokesperson said in a statement obtained by USA Today.
Cruz-Towns also worked at New Jersey's Rutgers University for 20 years, New Jersey's governor said.
The Timberwolves said in a statement, "In the four-plus years we were fortunate to know Jackie, she became part of our family. Her passion for life and for her family was palpable."
"As Karl's number one fan, she provided constant and positive energy for him and was beloved by our entire organization," the Timberwolves said.
Margit Feldman, 90, a survivor of the Auschwitz and Bergen Belsen concentration camps, died from coronavirus on April 14, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Her parents were killed at Auschwitz but Feldman lied to the Nazis, and said she was 18, not 15, making her eligible to serve forced labor, Murphy said after speaking with her family.
Feldman was 16 when she was liberated. She moved to Sweden, and then in 1957 the U.S., where she became an X-ray technician.
She got married and started a family, and went on to be active in her New Jersey synagogue, Murphy said.
But "Margit's legacy is best captured in her work to ensure the world never forgets the horrors of the Holocaust," Murphy said. "She would share her story of survival and liberation with tens of thousands of students across the state and served as a founding member of both the New Jersey Holocaust Education Commission and the Holocaust and Genocide Institute at Raritan Valley Community College."
"Margit gave us so much hope," Murphy said. "May her memory be a blessing to her family and to us all."
75 years ago, yesterday, the Bergen Belsen concentration camp was liberated by British forces. One of those freed was Margit Feldman. Her legacy is best captured in her work to ensure that the world never forgets the horrors of the Holocaust. Our hearts are with her family. pic.twitter.com/uCJJGxrQNo
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 16, 2020
Herbert "Bert" Heaney served as a forensic scientist with the New Jersey State Police for 36 years, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
He died on April 13 at the age of 77, according to his obituary.
Heaney was a longtime resident of Maywood, New Jersey, and as a member of the town's Board of Education, "he served the community for a number of years with dignity and commitment," the school district said.
Heaney was also a Vietnam veteran and "continued his service to our nation in the U.S. Army Reserves," the governor said.
For 36 years, Herbert 'Bert' Heaney was a forensic scientist at the @NJSP's North Regional Laboratory. He was a Vietnam Veteran and continued his service to our nation in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was dedicated to his community in Maywood. Our thoughts are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/rkXmwfqR8s
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 18, 2020
Skylar Herbert died on April 19 at the age of 5, becoming Michigan's youngest victim to succumb to the coronavirus, according to the state's Department of Health and Human Services.
Skylar, a kindergartener, loved stuffed animals, dressing up in her princess dresses, and playing with her grandmother's dog.
Her mother is a police officer and her father is a firefighter.
Skylar dreamed of becoming a pediatric dentist.
Darell Johnson, 43, is survived by his four children and his ex-wife who he considered his best friend.
He was born and raised in Morristown, New Jersey, a community he remained committed to his entire life, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Johnson worked in the guidance office at Morristown High School and worked part-time at Morristown Medical Center, Murphy said.
Darell Johnson worked in the guidance office at Morristown High School, and also worked part-time at Morristown Medical Center. He leaves behind his ex-wife and best friend, Melissa, and four children. We keep all of them in our prayers. pic.twitter.com/yy72MdNHtE
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 21, 2020
Raymond Kenny was the senior vice president and general manager of rail operations with NJ Transit, the state's commuter train system.
Kenny joined New Jersey Transit after a "distinguished career" with the Long Island Rail Road.
The NJ TRANSIT family is grieving the loss of our colleague Raymond P. Kenny, Senior Vice President & GM of Rail Operations. Ray started his distinguished career in rail @LIRR, and led @NJTRANSIT Rail Operations since January 2019. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ray's family. pic.twitter.com/Mczst4gWqX
— NJ TRANSIT (@NJTRANSIT) April 19, 2020
Chris Mondal, 30, was a public school teacher in the Bronx in New York City, reported ABC New York station WABC.
Mondal was driven and dedicated, always the first to arrive to school and the last to leave, WABC reported.
His fellow teacher, Jessica St. Hilaire, told WABC, "He walked into my classroom and it was like playtime, kids would pop out of their seats and go over there and give him high fives, that's who he was," she said.
PS 46 lost an amazing young man to Covid-19.
— Public School 46 Bronx (@PS46BX) April 12, 2020
He was a para, photographer, basketball coach, computer expert, everything. It's still so hard to believe. RIP Chris Mondal pic.twitter.com/Qg5nkQUf9y
Rita Koslow Nadler, 88, of Montclair, New Jersey, died on April 8.
Nadler is survived by her children and grandchildren and was predeceased by her husband.
Nadler graduated from Smith College and earned a law degree from the University of Chicago, her son, Evan Nadler, told ABC News.
She practiced law for over 50 years, working as a family and divorce attorney, her son said.
Rita Nadler loved to travel. She and her children and grandchildren took a trip to Costa Rica in December as an early celebration for the 88-year-old's 90th birthday, Evan Nadler said, because she wanted it to be an active vacation.
She walked two miles each day up until she was hospitalized, her son said.
John Redd, 63, was an EMT with New York City's fire department.
He was a 26-year veteran who responded to the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center, the FDNY said.
Redd also served as an assignment receiving dispatcher, during which he answered 911 calls and gave first aid instruction.
"When New Yorkers have a medical emergency they call 911 for help. EMT John Redd was the reassuring voice on the other end of that lifeline, talking to patients in need or families calling to bring badly needed care to a loved one," FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro said.
"Thousands and thousands of times in his career, EMT Redd quite literally answered the call for help in our city," Nigro said. "He was a vital part of our emergency medical response and all of the FDNY mourns his loss."
Redd is survived by his wife, Donna.
Linda Rini, 72, of Long Island, New York, died on April 8, according to her obituary.
Rini is survived by her children and grandchildren. Her husband died in 2006.
"Linda always said her greatest accomplishment was her family and her greatest joy was becoming a mother," her obituary said. "No one could make her smile as brightly as her two young grandchildren. Her family and friends are heartbroken by this loss."
Quentin Wiest died at the age of 107.
Wiest earned an engineering degree from George Washington University and pursued a career in the telecommunications industry.
He and his wife settled in Ridgewood, New Jersey, in 1975.
"He was, among other things, an expert bridge player. Even garnering a mention in "The New York Times,"" New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said "He volunteered for the Red Cross and at a local nursing home."
Wiest is survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Quentin Wiest was 107 years old when #COVID19 took him earlier this week. He rose through the ranks in the telecommunications industry, and was an expert bridge player and avid bowler. He volunteered for the Red Cross and at a local nursing home. Our hearts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/nTTuG48q6p
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 17, 2020
Update: April 17
Madhvi Aya, 61, who worked at a hospital in Brooklyn, is survived by her mother, husband and 18-year-old daughter.
Aya immigrated to the U.S. from India in 1994, The New York Times reported. She had been an anesthesiologist and internist in India, and in the U.S., she became a senior physical assistant who helped younger colleagues, the Times reported.
As Aya grew sicker in the hospital, her daughter texted her, "I miss you mommy," according to texts published in The New York Times.
"Please don't give up hope because I haven't given up," she wrote. "I need my mommy. I need you to come back to me."
Kejuane Bates, a police officer in Vidalia, Louisiana, died on April 1, said Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill.
"He was a son, husband, father, police officer, pastor, D.A.R.E. officer, coach, mentor and my friend," Merrill said in a statement. "There are no words to take away the pain that our family, his family, and our community are going through right now."
"Officer Kejaune Bates was a man of God and all I can think of is that this is God's plan. Kejuane is rejoicing in Heaven right now," the chief said. "We will get through this together as a Nation and community. Please keep Chelsea, Madison and all of Kejuane's family in your prayers."
Reno Boffice, principal of the Palm Beach Maritime Academy in Florida, died on April 14, the school said.
"His giant heart gave out, and we are devastated," the school said in a statement. "There are no words to describe the loss."
Boffice, 61, "was one lively presence," Marie Turchiaro, the school's executive director, told the Sun-Sentinel newspaper.
"Nobody liked a good joke better than Reno. He made the kids laugh, and they loved him," Turchiaro said.
"He has been a principal for as long as I can remember," his sister, Louise Boffice, had told ABC affiliate WPBF. "Really really loved by all."
Robert Cardona was an NYPD detective and a Sept. 11 cancer survivor.
Cardona is survived by an 8-year-old son.
Cardona, a 19-year veteran of the NYPD, was also a union delegate in the Detectives' Endowment Association.
"Detective Robert Cardona was a caring and courageous Detective who protected every New Yorker for 19 years," Detectives' Endowment Association President Paul DiGiacomo said in a statement. "Robert's dedication to service did not stop with the public. As a union delegate, he also deeply cared for all of his fellow Detectives – and was there to help everyone. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers are with his son and loved ones, who we vow to always support."
Today we lost another great detective to Covid-19 complications. Detective Robert Cardona is a 19 year veteran and leaves behind an 8-year-old son. While assigned to the 13th Precinct Detective Squad, Robert was a 911 cancer survivor and dedicated DEA delegate. pic.twitter.com/WUIdAVBufz
— Chief Rodney Harrison (@NYPDDetectives) April 16, 2020
Anthony Causi, 48, a longtime photographer for The New York Post, died on Sunday.
He is survived by his wife and children, ages 5 and 2, the Post said.
Causi joined The Post in 1994 where he went on to cover New York City's sports teams.
"He was, quite simply, one of the best sports photographers in New York City, capturing all the major moments of the past 25 years," The Post's editor-in-chief, Stephen Lynch, said in a statement released by the publication.
"Soft-spoken, funny, but most of all kind — he was respected by those he photographed and admired by those with whom he worked," Lynch said. "The Post that you read, and the newsroom that we work in, are less colorful today because of his absence."
Harold Davis, 63, was a radio host and an anti-violence activist who worked with at-risk teenagers in Chicago, reported Chicago radio station WBEZ.
He died on April 12, Easter Sunday, WBEZ reported.
"I could call Harold any time of day, any day of the week, any day of the year," Jadine Chou, Chicago Public Schools Chief of Safety and Security, told WBEZ. "If one of our young people needed something, he was always there."
"He wanted to make sure that all of our young people knew that they had just the brightest future," Chou said.
Through his radio show, he argued for equality for the African American community, WBEZ said.
Davis is survived by his wife, son and daughter.
Lila Fenwick, the first black woman to graduate from Harvard Law School, died on April 4 at the age of 87, The New York Times reported.
In 2003, Fenwick told the Harvard Law Bulletin, "I knew I was going to be a lawyer when I was a little girl ... It never occurred to me that there were going to be any obstacles."
After graduating Harvard Law School in 1956, Fenwick went on to a career as a human rights official at the United Nations and as a private practice lawyer, The Times said. She also helped establish the Foundation for Research and Education in Sickle Cell Disease, The Times said.
Jose Fontanez was a 29-year veteran of the Boston Police Department who "received numerous commendations for his dedicated service," department said.
Fontanez, 53, a Boston native, loved law enforcement, his family and baseball. He leaves behind a wife, four children and a grandchild, The Boston Globe reported.
Fontanez was admitted to the hospital on April 3 and died on April 14, his family told the Globe.
"This is a devastating blow to his family and a blow to our city," Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said. "As a police officer, he served our community and stood in harm's way to protect us. Today we lost a hero."
Daniel Francis, 51, was a criminal intelligence analyst with the Newark, New Jersey, police.
He died on April 13.
Francis first worked at the East Orange, New Jersey, Police Department and later spent 16 years as an investigator with the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, working in narcotics, special victims and homicide, the Newark Public Safety Department said.
"Francis rose to the rank of Lieutenant and retired from the Prosecutor's Office in 2017," the public safety department said. "He later joined the Newark Police Division, where he served with distinction in the Major Crimes Division as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst."
"Francis was a husband and the father of two adult children, a college student and a 6-year-old child," the public safety department said. "He will be sorely missed."
UPDATE: Mayor Baraka and Public Safety Director Ambrose Announce the Passing of Police Intelligence Analyst Daniel Francis Due to Coronavirus. https://t.co/bFdvfbhxfg via @Nextdoor pic.twitter.com/tH7I6YYeUK
— Dept. Public Safety (@NewarkNJPolice) April 14, 2020
Eddy Germain served New Jersey for more than 30 years as an employee of the state's Department of Transportation.
His last assignment was on structural analysis for the federal waiver on highway weight limits for truckers carrying COVID-19 relief supplies, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said.
Eddy Germain served our state for more than 30 years at @NJDOT_info. His last work was on the structural analysis we needed for our federal waiver of the weight limits on our highways for truckers carrying #COVID19 relief supplies. We will keep his family in our prayers. pic.twitter.com/Mx5GL5aY8P
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 14, 2020
Gregory Hodge, 59, was a New York City EMT.
He was a 24-year veteran of the FDNY and was a responder to the Sept. 11 World Trade Center rescue and recovery efforts, the department said.
"EMT Hodge was a skilled first responder who provided outstanding emergency medical care to thousands of New Yorkers throughout his long and distinguished career of service," FDNYT Commissioner Daniel Nigro said in a statement.
"This pandemic has impacted our Department at every level, especially our EMS members who are responding to more medical calls than ever before," Nigro said. "Now, they will continue to bravely answer those calls with even heavier hearts, having lost one of their fellow EMTs to COVID-19. Our entire Department mourns his loss."'
Paul Loggan, the athletic director of North Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, died on April 12.
Loggan was a husband, father and the face of the athletic department for over 30 years.
He "modeled loyalty, dedication, passion and compassion," Principal Evans Branigan said in a statement.
Loggan "was an unbelievable advocate for NC athletics and every student who ever donned an NC uniform," said Director of Washington Township Secondary Schools, Rick Doss.
"While he wanted every NC team to win a state championship, he was he was an even bigger cheerleader for every NC athlete," Doss said. "He knew the value of team sports but wanted every student to grow through his/her athletic experience because he knew those experiences would set him/her up for success beyond high school."
Coach Hodes was out of town so Mr. Loggan stepped up. Paul gave us a football locker room pep talk and we won the tournament! Thus, Paul Loggan is the only undefeated NC golf coach in panther history. Thank you for all you did for our program. We wish you fairways and greens.. pic.twitter.com/NfKN6oyEVP
— NCHS Golf (@NCHSGolf) April 13, 2020
Hundreds of schools across the state will be turning on their football stadium lights at exactly 7:00pm, "kickoff time" tonight in memory of our athletic director Paul Loggan. Please hold Kathy, Michael, Will, and Sami in your hearts. #Paulstrong pic.twitter.com/o5Tt4LM2An
— NC Athletics (@panthersnc) April 13, 2020
Cliff Martin was a detective sergeant with the Chicago police.
"He was a Chicagoan through and through and he loved being a Chicago cop," said police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.
Martin, a 25-year veteran of the department, is survived by his wife and three children, said Mayor Mayor Lori Lightfoot.
Two of his children are also Chicago police officers.
Lightfoot said she spoke with Martin's wife, and that "even in her grief she said that her husband would want his death to serve as a warning to civilians that they must stay home."
Today we announce the passing of Detective Sgt. Cliff Martin from complications of #COVID19. He was a Chicagoan through and through and he loved being a Chicago cop. Two of his children followed their Dad's footsteps of becoming a Chicago Police Officer. #NeverForget pic.twitter.com/WE0zWb3JPT
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) April 11, 2020
Sam McGhee was the first African American elected as mayor of Hillside, New Jersey, in the 1980s.
He was a member of the Hillside township committee, served on the Union County Improvement Authority, and was the Dean of Admissions at New Jersey City University for 32 years, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
Sam McGhee was the first African-American elected to serve as Mayor of Hillside. He was a member of the township committee & also served on the Union County Improvement Authority. For 32 years, he served as dean of admissions at @NJCUniversity. Our hearts are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/r1SQU4JfJD
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 10, 2020
Mary Ellen Porter was a nurse at the Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York
"Mary Ellen personified the level of commitment and compassion that we strive for everyday," the medical center said in a statement. "She was a dedicated nursing professional in our hospital for many years and she made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of her colleagues and patients."
"While her guiding hand, humor and everyday presence will be sorely missed, her memory will live on in our hearts and minds forever," hospital officials said.
Bernie Rubin, 82, was the founder of Bernie & Phyl's, a chain of furniture stores in New England.
Rubin opened the first store with his wife in 1983 and they later expanded to nine stores in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, reported ABC Boston affiliate WCVB.
"He was one in a million," said a statement on the Bernie & Phyl's Furniture social media accounts. "He was honest, hard-working, fair and, above all, loved his family – which included his entire extended Bernie & Phyl's family. He will be greatly missed."
Francesco Scorpo, 34, was a police officer in Patterson, New Jersey.
He is survived by his wife and sons, who are 6 months old and 4 years old.
"Officer Scorpo was a dedicated public servant who served our profession and our community with pride, honor and distinction," the Patterson Police Department said.
"A dedicated son, husband and father, Officer Scorpo, was a family man who cared so very much about people and his profession," the department said. "He will be remembered not only for being an exemplary police officer, but as an exceptional and very special human being."
Sister Marie June Skender, 83, died on April 7 at Our Lady of the Angels Convent in Greenfield, Wisconsin.
School Sisters of St. Francis said she "ministered in our community for 67 years, serving as an elementary school teacher, parish and school musician, and pastoral care minister in the diocese of Green Bay and in the archdioceses of Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Milwaukee."
She was born in Milwaukee and graduated from the city's Alverno College, ABC Milwaukee affiliate WISN reported.
She lived at Our Lady of the Angels Convent in Greenfield since 2016, WISN reported.
Update: April 11
Chicago firefighter Mario Araujo, who joined the department in October 2003, died on April 7, the department said.
From Larry Langford; CFD has lost one of our own to complications of COVID-19. Firefighter Mario Araujo, a proud member of CFD Truck Company 25 passed away this evening. He joined CFD in October of 2003 and spent most of his career at Truck 25. May God bless his soul. pic.twitter.com/M4TdfQJ2q7
— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) April 8, 2020
Araujo was also an Auxiliary Corporal with the Rosemont Public Safety Department, a community he served since 2015.
"We have lost a man of great significance and purpose. A selfless man that served not one, but two communities," the Rosemont Public Safety Department said.
Reggie Bagala was a first-term Louisiana state representative.
"Just one month ago, he entered the Louisiana State Capitol with excitement and eagerness to serve the people of our great state and the people of House District 54, and today we mourn his loss," Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards tweeted on April 9.
Bagala "was a profoundly honest and decent man, who loved unceasingly," his son, Tristan Paul Bagala, wrote on Facebook. "His family, his culture, his LSU Tigers, his friends, and his home here on Bayou Lafourche. Our t-slice of the world will not be the same without such a pillar of our community and an example of the values we hold dearest."
"A successful businessman, devoted family man, and active volunteer, Rep. Bagala spent his life making his community and south Louisiana a better place to live for everyone," the governor tweeted.
Richard E. Barber Sr. was a senior deacon at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in New Jersey. He was also a former deputy executive director of the NAACP, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said, and participated in the student protests in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1960.
Barber, 80, "never lost his passion for justice and community empowerment, the Rev. DeForest B. Soaries Jr., senior pastor at the church, said in an email to the Bridgewater Courier News.
"Barber was a leader and supporter of vision and the role that our church played in revitalizing our neighborhood," Soaries said. "He was a role model and inspiration to those that want to live lives that matter."
Richard E. Barber Sr. was a senior deacon at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. He dedicated his life to the cause of social justice, leading civil rights protests in Greensboro in 1960. He was a past deputy executive director of the @NAACP. He will not be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/96tJUL4i2r
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 8, 2020
Albert Barber, who went by Vincent, was just 39 years old.
"He was a dynamic preacher, and awesome musician," his wife, Latresa Rice, told ABC Detroit affiliate WXYZ.
Barber married Rice in October and moved from South Carolina to Detroit to be with her, WXYZ said.
Rice said a doctor used FaceTime so she could say goodbye to her husband of less than one year.
"I was able to pray with him before they put him on a ventilator," Rice told WXYZ.
Raymond Copeland, of Queens, New York, was a sanitation worker.
The 46-year-old worked with the sanitation department since 2014 and attended City University of New York-Herbert H. Lehman College, according to his LinkedIn.
He was the first city sanitation department employee to die from the virus.
We mourn the passing of Sanitation Worker Raymond Copeland of Queens 12, who passed away of complications from COVID-19. He is our first employee to lose his life to this disease that has taken so many of our fellow New Yorkers. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/qJRklJgeba
— NYC Sanitation (@NYCSanitation) April 7, 2020
Deidre Edwards was a city custodial assistant with the New York Police Department's facility maintenance section.
Edwards, who died on April 6, worked with the department since August 2005, according to the New York Daily News.
"Deidre served with our NYPD family for nearly 15 years," Commissioner Shea tweeted "Our sympathies & prayers are with her loved ones, friends, & colleagues."
Charlotte Figi, a 13-year-old from Colorado Springs, Colorado, suffered from Dravet syndrome, a rare, drug-resistant epilepsy.
However, her family used her condition to inspire changes to medical marijuana laws, reported ABC Denver affiliate KMGH-TV.
Figi's family moved to Colorado after the state legalized cannabis, and at age 5, her mother gave her CBD which immediately changed the little girl's condition, KMGH reported.
A representative for Realm of Caring, the non-profit tied to Figi's cause, confirmed to ABC News that Figi's death was due to complications of COVID-19.
According to KMGH, Figi family said in a statement on Facebook, "Charlotte is no longer suffering. She is seizure-free forever."
Joe Hansen was a conductor with New Jersey's NJ Transit commuter trains.
His son, Brian, is an NJ Transit mechanic, said Gov. Phil Murphy.
"Joe positively impacted many lives as he served customers for more than 20 years," NJ Transit officials said. "Joe was a well-loved member of the NJT family, and he will be deeply missed."
All of us at NJ TRANSIT mourn the tragic and untimely loss of conductor Joe Hansen from complications related to COVID19. Joe positively impacted many lives as he served customers for more than 20 years. Joe was a well-loved member of the NJT family, and he will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/GCGanJS02s
— NJ TRANSIT (@NJTRANSIT) April 8, 2020
"He was just 62 years old," tweeted Gov. Murphy. "His wife, Denise, and the entire family, is in our thoughts and our prayers."
Cody Lyster was a 21-year-old student at Colorado Mesa University, where he was a club baseball player and pursuing a degree in criminal justice.
Lyster formerly attended Rangeview High School in Aurora, Colorado.
"Cody was a kind hearted young man that was a perfect example of a true Raider," his high school athletic department said.
It's with a Heavy ❤️ we share the news that RHS Alumni Cody Lyster passes away last night of complications from COVID-19. Prayers to his family. Cody was a kind hearted young man that was a perfect example of a true Raider. pic.twitter.com/BIUfnzv4gD
— Rangeview Athletics (@RangeviewAthle1) April 8, 2020
Joanne Mellady, 67, died on March 30, 13 years after undergoing a double lung transplant, which gave her a "second life," said her sister.
Mellady was diagnosed with a genetic condition in the early 1990s that made the transplant necessary, her sister, Jean Sinofsky, told ABC News.
While Mellady was sick she made a bucket list, her sister said. She went skiing, hand gliding, and most of all, traveling, from the Grand Canyon to Alaska to Florida, Sinofsky said.
Because she was vulnerable to any type of respiratory illness, she was always careful and wore masks while traveling on planes, her sister said.
"After the transplant, I mean she just loved life," Sinofsky said. "She was just so thankful for this gift that she got from this other family that lost someone."
Prea Nakieshore, 34, worked in the emergency department at a hospital in Queens, New York, where she registered patients.
Nakieshore, who died on April 5, is survived by her 8-year-old twin boys and her fiance, Marcus Khan, who she had known since high school.
"She loved working at the hospital... she loved to help people," Khan told ABC News. "She wanted to do her part. She wanted to do a part."
Nakieshore "was a dedicated mom" who "lived for her children," Khan added. "She was the most honest, loving person I have ever met in my life... she will always be the love of my life."
Larry Rathgeb was the engineer who led the team that built the first race car to reach 200 mph, driven by Buddy Baker in 1970.
Rathgeb died on March 22 at the age of 90.
Rathgeb's long life included serving in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1952, during which time he was part of Gen. Douglas MacArthur's honor guard and a mechanic in his motor pool, his son, Jeff Rathgeb, told ABC News.
Larry Rathgeb then received a degree in engineering and joined Chrysler which ran a program in the 1960s developing racecars for NASCAR.
Even at 90 years old, when Larry Rathgeb attended collectors events and automotive events, Jeff Rathgeb said his father was treated like a "rock star."
For all of his success on the raceway, Jeff Rathgeb said his father was most proud of "the family he created and the friendships that he had."
Detroit Fire Capt. Franklin Williams, 58, spent 32 years with the department.
He leaves behind a wife and seven children, reported ABC Detroit affiliate WXYZ.
"Frank is remembered as a kind and generous man," Detroit Fire Legacy tweeted. "He will remain forever in our hearts."
It is with great sadness I report the death of active Detroit Fire Captain Franklin Williams due to Covid 19.
— Detroit Fire Legacy (@dfdlegacy) April 9, 2020
Frank is remembered as a kind and generous man.
He will remain forever in our hearts 💕 pic.twitter.com/QUYYIyHTXR
Update: April 8
Peter Armatis, 54, a coach and board member with the Fredericksburg Football Club in Virginia, died on April 1, the club said.
"Without a culture built on respect, hard work and empathy, you will only have a collection of individuals. We often spent hours talking about this, how to handle certain situations that arose, how to help players grow as people," fellow coach Kevin Leahy said in a press release announcing Armatis' death. "Peter was at his best when he was helping you work through a problem. He didn't give you the solution, but would often just listen, ask a question and listen some more."
Fredericksburg FC mourns the loss of coach and Board of Directors member Peter Armatis. Click the link for full press release: https://t.co/qcnCCpvepe pic.twitter.com/h9zVrcgT0z
— Fredericksburg FC (@FFC_1986) April 3, 2020
Armatis was known as a mentor to those in and out of the soccer community, said the club's recreation director, Adrian Batchelor.
"Peter put his best foot forward in everything that he did. He was passionate, competitive, caring, responsible," Batchelor said. "He was a wonderful family man and his good nature just spilled over to everyone that he met... he will be missed immensely."
Armatis is survived by his wife, daughter and two sons.
Aldo Bazzarelli, owner of an Italian restaurant in New Jersey, died on April 6, according to his family.
Bazzarelli opened Bazzarelli Restaurant in 1971 with his father-in-law, according to NJ.com.
The restaurant is such a beloved local joint that, after a forced closure and rebuild from Super Storm Sandy, New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez and then-Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno came to Bazzarelli's re-opening ribbon cutting, NJ.com reported.
One day before Bazzarrelli's death, his family posted that he was intubated and "in a fight for his life."
Actor Jay Benedict died on April 4 from coronavirus, according to TCG Artist Management, which represented him.
Benedict, 68, was best known from 1986's "Aliens," 2012's "The Dark Knight Rises" and the British TV show "Emmerdale," reported USA Today.
Pierce Brosnan, Benedict's friend of over 40 years, wrote on Instagram, "This is a photo taken last May outside the stage door of the Lyric theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue London ...the stage door was tucked in right next door to the Old Windmill Theatre. Jay and I played brothers in a Franco Zeffirelli production of Filumena."
"Life was so much fun with Jay, on stage and off, we laughed a lot at the world around us, at our selves, saw the funny side of life always," he wrote.
"He was a courageous man of handsome life force, that shone its light in every room he walked into, down every road he traveled, he shared his joyful radiance of kinship with all who knew him, a fine mind of intellect and compassion, he gave of himself in every way to the craft of acting, but above all else, he gave us all his great love of life, himself," Brosnan wrote. "My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to his beloved wife Phoebe, his sons Leo and Freddie, my dearest God sons, peace be with you all dear hearts."
Shannon Bennett was a deputy with the Broward Sheriff's Office in Florida, where he served for 12 years.
Bennett was "an out and proud gay law enforcement deputy; a school resource officer who protected and mentored the young students at Deerfield Beach Elementary; a man in love to be wedded later this year," the sheriff's office tweeted.
"We love and will miss you, Deputy Bennett. Thank you for your bravery, your kind heart, and your service," the department said.
It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Shannon Bennett due to COVID-19.
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) April 4, 2020
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Deputy Bennett served BSO for more than 12 years and was a fine deputy and individual. (1/2) #TeamBSO pic.twitter.com/ywl32BAiAz
Deputy Shannon Bennett was a 12 year veteran of the Broward Sheriff's Office; an out and proud gay law enforcement deputy; a school resource officer who protected and mentored the young students at Deerfield Beach Elementary; a man in love to be wedded later this year. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/QcqMc31gCd
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) April 5, 2020
Deputy Shannon Bennett's neighbors share remembrances and leave gifts by his BSO patrol vehicle in the neighborhood where he lived to show how much he was loved. "He turned his lights on for our little 18-month old son one day and made him smile." Rest In Peace, Deputy Bennett. pic.twitter.com/8vgRHVwcVq
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) April 5, 2020
Cheryl Catron, a civilian administrative aide with the Fairburn Police Department in Georgia, died on April 3, the department said.
"She was an important part of our team, someone that worked tirelessly to keep us up and running," the department said. "We are heartbroken here. Losing a member of our Fairburn family is an awful thing to endure. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl's family, friends, and all those she loved. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten."
Jose Diaz Ayala, 38, was a sergeant with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
He was battling other underlying health issues before he contracted COVID-19, the sheriff's office said.
"Sgt. Diaz Ayala began his career at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office in July of 2006. He was assigned to the Corrections Division where he worked as a Corrections Deputy until being promoted to Sergeant in January of 2016.
He is survived by three daughters.
Daisy Doronila, a single mom from Nutley, New Jersey, spent more than 20 years working as a nurse at the Hudson County Correctional Center.
"She gave tirelessly to her family and community," said Gov. Phil Murphy.
Daisy Doronila served as a nurse at the Hudson County Correctional Center for more than 20 years. She was a single mom, lived in Nutley, and a proud member of @district1199J. She gave tirelessly to her family and community. Our deepest condolences to her family. pic.twitter.com/Xw7Nitgga8
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 6, 2020
Tony Greer, a member of the ABC News family, worked at "Good Morning America" as a studio camera operator since 2014. He died on April 7.
Greer was also an artist, passionate about filmmaking, music, art and fashion.
Greer and his longtime girlfriend, Robin, loved to travel, and each year attended Fashion Week in Paris.
Greer was a "total pro," said ABC News Chief Anchor George Stephanopoulos. "He was a consummate gentleman. Such a lovely man, such a lovely spirit."
"We loved every single moment we were blessed to spend and share with Tony," added "GMA" anchor Robin Roberts. "Our condolences to his family in Chicago."
To Greer's mother, Roberts said, "Your son was a good man. He was kind, he was thoughtful, he was always a gentleman."
He is survived by his girlfriend; his mother, Fannie; his brother, Kevin; his sister, Janet, and his nieces and nephews.
Anick "Nick" Jesdanun, 51, a deputy technology editor for The Associated Press and longtime AP employee, died on April 2, the publication said.
Jesdanun was the AP's first reporter to be given the "internet writer" byline 20 years ago, the publication said. The AP was the only employer Jesdanun ever had.
"He had the deepest institutional memory of AP's tech coverage and patiently educated dozens of novice colleagues in all things digital," said Frank Bajak, the AP's first technology editor.
He ran 83 marathons spanning every continent. He was also a movie buff and a photography lover.
Colette Lamothe-Galette, a former deputy commissioner at New Jersey's Department of Health, "dedicated her life to improving the health of New Jerseyans," Gov. Phil Murphy said.
We are saddened to share the news that our colleague and friend, Colette Lamothe-Galette has passed away. Colette was a formidable and tireless champion for children & families of New Jersey and we send our heartfelt sympathy to her family, friends, and the @NicholsonForNJ team. https://t.co/KlqEXRz2Ig
— The Burke Foundation (@BurkeFoundation) April 6, 2020
Two years ago, the state's Department of Health quoted her saying, "Though it's hard to do, we must remember to take control of our own health first"
" Though it's hard to do, we must remember to take control of our own health first" - Colette Lamothe-Galette, Director, Population Health Division#NationalWomensHealthWeek pic.twitter.com/q3BVuhu1Yl
— NJDOH (@NJDeptofHealth) May 16, 2018
She most recently worked at the Nicholson Foundation which is "dedicated to improving the health and well-being of vulnerable populations."
The foundation said "Colette's mission and memory live on through the work."
We thank you for your condolences. Colette's mission and memory live on through the work of @NJDeptofHealth as well as here at @NicholsonforNJ. https://t.co/4XmXCkCwAu
— The Nicholson Foundation (@NicholsonForNJ) April 6, 2020
Angel Leon, an NYPD Auxiliary Police sergeant, died on April 4.
"He served the NYPD, & the people of the Bronx, since 1981," NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea tweeted. "All of NYC is keeping Angel's family & friends in our prayers."
With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Auxiliary Police Sergeant Angel Leon, who died yesterday from coronavirus-related complications. He served the NYPD, & the people of the Bronx, since 1981.
— Commissioner Shea (@NYPDShea) April 5, 2020
All of NYC is keeping Angel's family & friends in our prayers.#NeverForget pic.twitter.com/kmcuV9LavL
Ben Luderer, 30, was a teacher and varsity baseball coach in the Cliffside Park School District in New Jersey, reported ABC New York station WABC.
"Thanks for being a great coach, teacher, friend and always a mentor and role model for your students," the school district said.
He was also a former college athlete who played baseball at Marist College.
#16 - Saddened with the news of former student-athlete Ben Luderer's passing. He was tough, smart & a great teammate. Went on be a loved teacher & coach! We pray for Ben's wife and family! 🦊 pic.twitter.com/wctZa6hkaw
— Marist Baseball (@Marist_BSB) March 30, 2020
Luderer was "a young baseball coach whose love of the game pushed his players to new heights," New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy tweeted. "Coronavirus has taken another New Jerseyan from us far too soon. Our hearts are with his loved ones and players, both past & present."
Michael McKinnell, 84, one of the two architects of Boston City Hall, died on March 27, according to The New York Times.
McKinnell was a part of the City Hall 50th anniversary celebration last year, reported ABC Boston affiliate WCVB.
He went on to teach at Harvard's Graduate School of Design, WCVB said.
McKinnell is survived by his wife, two daughters and four grandchildren, the Times said.
Brenda Perryman was a staple of the community in Detroit suburb Southfield, Michigan, where she taught high school speech and drama, launched an actor's workshop and hosted a radio show reported ABC Detroit affiliate WXYZ.
Perryman died on April 5, according to WXYZ.
Michigan Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence called Perryman "a beloved Southfield educator and community member."
"Your dedication to building up the community you served will never be forgotten," she wrote.
I am saddened by the loss of a beloved Southfield educator and community member, Brenda Perryman.
— Brenda Lawrence (@RepLawrence) April 6, 2020
Your dedication to building up the community you served will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/atqWBLsYxh
Former state Senator Ian Conyers wrote on Facebook, "When someone believes in you they encourage you, teach you and cover you. My dear friend Brenda Perryman was a mentor to so many who want to live free. She taught our proud history and illuminated the vision for Detroit's future. We are so fortunate to have had her grace."
Sandra Santos-Vizcaino, 54, who spent more than 20 years with New York City schools, was a third-grade teacher at P.S. 9 in Brooklyn, The Associated Press reported.
She died on March 31, according to P.S. 9 Principal Fatimah Ali.
Her 27-year-old son, Victor Vizcaino, is a medical student who brought her to the hospital, The New York Daily News reported.
"I was able to hold her hand," he told the Daily News.
Santos-Vizcaino was a "beloved" teacher, Ali said in a letter to students and parents, calling her loss "a tragedy for the PS9 students, staff and the entire school community."
Besides her son, she is survived by her husband and daughter, according to the Daily News.
Anthony Smith was a postal worker in the Detroit area who spent 30 years with the U.S. Postal Service, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union said in a statement on April 1.
"Anthony was a veteran having served honorably in the Army for 12 years. He was married and loved kids; he helped raise fifteen children," the union said. "Anthony loved music, a good barbeque and singing karaoke. He was a funny man that enjoyed telling jokes and spending time with family and friends. Anthony Smith will be deeply missed by family, friends and all that knew him."
Dr. James Wilson, born in the Dominican Republic, lived in Bergen County, New Jersey, for the last 50 years, said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
"Wilson was a pioneering physician – in the 1960s he became one of the first Dominican physicians to open a clinic in the United States, where he tended to patients for more than 40 years," Murphy tweeted.
Born in the Dominican Republic, Dr. James Wilson was a pioneering physician – in the 1960s he became one of the first Dominican physicians to open a clinic in the United States, where he tended to patients for more than 40 years. Our condolences to everyone who knew him. pic.twitter.com/P8qlWyvGRH
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 7, 2020
Wilson and his wife recently celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary, Murphy said.
He is also survived by his six children.
Michael Yun was a councilman in Jersey City, New Jersey, first elected to the council in 2013.
He moved to the U.S. in 1979 and lived in Jersey City Heights ever since 1981, according to his city council biography.
He was active in volunteer work, including helping push for the building of Jersey City's Korean War Veteran's memorial.
"As Co-Chairman of Save Christ Hospital, he has helped lead the effort to preserve the hospital as an acute care medical facility," his biography said.
"He was a great co worker and a tireless advocate for the people of #JerseyCity - More than that he was a great father, husband, and grandfather," Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop tweeted. "I can speak for the entire JC community that we are devastated."
We just learned, moments ago, of the passing of @JerseyCity Councilman Michael Yun.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 6, 2020
He was a respected leader and a good man. A terrific husband, father, and grandfather.
We stand with Jersey City in mourning his loss, and we send our thoughts to his family. pic.twitter.com/TyTB4yJOUu
Published April 4
Santa Rosa, California, police detective Marylou Armer "was a bright light in this organization," Santa Rosa Police Chief Rainer Navarro said.
Armer, who died on March 31, joined the Santa Rosa Police Department in evidence collection in September 1999. She became an officer in May 2008.
Armer's most recent assignment was as a detective with the domestic violence and sexual aggression team.
Armer was a "thoughtful and committed public servant" who was "always proactive and there with a smile," Navarro said.
"A hero remembered is never forgotten," he said.
Francis "Frank" Boccabella III, 39, was the first federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employee to die from COVID-19.
Boccabella joined the TSA in 2004, working as an explosive detection canine handler at New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport.
He then worked as a compliance inspector and then an explosive detection canine handler at New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport.
"Frank was dedicated to protecting the traveling public with his canine partner, Bullet, a 6-year-old German Short-haired Pointer and his previous canine partner, Zmay," the TSA said. "Frank and his canine partners screened hundreds of thousands of passengers, keeping them and the transportation network safe."
"His passing represents a personal loss to all of us who knew him and cherished both his friendship and professionalism," the TSA said. "We offer heartfelt condolences to Frank's wife, extended family, his TSA colleagues and his friends."
James Brown, 48, was the principal of Grover Cleveland Middle School in Caldwell, New Jersey, since 2012.
"He leaves behind his wife, Sherry, his three children, and an entire school community who loved him dearly," New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy tweeted.
We're deeply saddened by the loss of James Brown, the principal of Grover Cleveland Middle School in Caldwell.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 3, 2020
He leaves behind his wife, Sherry, his three children, and an entire school community who loved him dearly. He was only 48 years old. pic.twitter.com/JuDVNnVEtP
In a statement, the Caldwell-West Caldwell Public School District said Brown "introduced a House System to foster team-building and school spirit, and he created an Advisory/Enrichment Program that allows students to develop networks of support and to explore their interests."
"He brought in many speakers from all walks of life to provide students with models of determination, grit, and commitment to helping those in need. Mr. Brown's unmatched dedication to community service inspired students, faculty, and parents to focus on compassion for our fellow citizens and to make a difference every day," read the statement. "We mourn the loss of a wonderful colleague who enriched our lives with his kindness, intelligence, and humor, we extend our deepest condolences to his family."
Three members of an Ohio family -- Judith Conkey, her husband Lewis Conkey and their son David Conkey -- all died from coronavirus.
"My uncle passed away first and then my grandmother and my grandfather, they both passed the same day," Judith and Lewis Conkey's granddaughter, Katie Garbrandt, told ABC News.
"Everyone's deterioration went pretty quickly," she said. "My grandparents did know that they were in the same hospital and they could communicate by phone, but they didn't know one's condition one day from the next. And we didn't tell my grandparents when my uncle had passed away. They were on life support and we just we just couldn't do that."
"I don't know if there's a word to describe how close-knit we are," Garbrandt said. He said his grandparents were married in 1963 and "did everything together. ... They were always there for us."
"Take it seriously," Garbrandt said of the virus. "We want to spare any family we can from the trauma that we're going through. We can't have funeral the proper way. We can't grieve with our friends and our family. And it just makes everything 10 times worse."
Cedric Dixon, 48, was a New York Police Department detective who served the city for 23 years, according to the Detectives' Endowment Association.
"We are hurting, we are crying and we continue to fight," Police Commissioner Dermot Shea said.
"I've spoke to many of his friends and coworkers since this morning. He was known as the person who would do anything to help you," Shea said. "He is going to be so sorely missed."
Larry Edgeworth was a longtime NBC News employee.
Edgeworth, who died on March 19, most recently worked in an equipment room at NBC News' New York headquarters. He spent 25 years as an NBC News audio technician, traveling around the world with producers and correspondents, before working in an equipment room at the network's New York headquarters, NBC News Chairman Andy Lack said.
"He was truly one of the nicest men I've ever had the pleasure of working with," wrote NBC News meteorologist Dylan Dreyer. "Through the coldest snowstorm, he always had a smile on his face. ... I'll miss this wonderfully kind man very much."
Edgeworth is survived by his wife and two sons.
The man on the left is Larry Edgeworth. I met him as the sound tech on our team that covered the Romney campaign in 2012. He called me "slim," and helped me put together my first resume tape. He was SO proud of his kids. He was hilarious. Yesterday he lost his fight with COVID-19 pic.twitter.com/73D93utgPX
— Garrett Haake (@GarrettHaake) March 20, 2020
Angel Escamilla was a pastor with the Calvary Church of Naperville in Illinois.
"I personally found Pastor Angel to be a man of strong faith in the Lord, a man in the Word, and a man of GREAT prayer!" wrote Pastor Marty Sloan. "If anyone ever spoke into the heavens in prayer, it was Pastor Angel. He will be forever missed on our team and in the church family."
Paul Frishkorn, 65, had been a flight attendant with American Airlines since 1997 and was based in Philadelphia.
"Over the years he built a reputation as a consummate professional who was honored as a Flight Service Champion twice," said a statement from the Association of Professional Flight Attendants. "He was also a knowledgeable benefits consultant and servant leader for his colleagues through his work with the Association of Flight Attendants while at US Airways and later, with the Association of Professional Flight Attendants."
Dr. Frank Gabrin, a New Jersey emergency room doctor, "was committed to health care" and always wanted to be a doctor, his friend of 20 years, Debra Vasalech Lyons, told ABC News.
"He had survived a lot of things. Not only did he survive two bouts of cancer, he was part of emergency medicine during the AIDS epidemic," she said.
In Gabrin's emergency room, the coronavirus pandemic "went from manageable to unmanageable almost overnight," Lyons said.
"He said, 'Look, the gloves that I have a size medium, I'm an extra large. Every time I put them on, they break. I've had to use this week my mask for four shifts,'" she recalled. "The hand-washing stations, they were so busy. They were running out of soap."
When Gabrin fell ill with coronavirus symptoms, he self-quarantined at home, she said.
Lyon recalled Gabrin telling her: "I'm very grateful that I have it mild. Within a couple of weeks I'll be through this and I'll have the antibodies and be ready to go back to work."
Gabrin is survived by his husband.
Ron Golden was the brother of Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.
She wrote on Instagram, "To many, he'll be a statistic: Tennessee's second COVID-related death. But to me, I'll remember a loving, older brother, uncle, father, and husband."
"Ron was a tough-as-nails Marine who was a big teddy bear on the inside," Flanagan wrote.
My sister-in-law sent over some photos of my brother, Ron Golden, who passed away on Saturday. These are my favorites. #COVID19 has a real impact on our families and our communities. Ron is why I'm urging folks to #StayHomeMN. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ycsTbRxlQY
— Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan (@LtGovFlanagan) March 24, 2020
Flanagan wrote that Golden was diagnosed with cancer several weeks ago.
"His immune system was compromised and he contracted COVID-19," she wrote. "He was put in a medically induced coma and placed on a ventilator. He fought it as hard as he could but it was simply too much for his body. THIS is why we must #StayHome."
Golden died on March 21.
Dr. James Goodrich was a world-renowned pediatric neurosurgeon and director of the division of pediatric neurosurgery at New York City's Montefiore Medical Center.
Goodrich, who died on March 30, specialized in children with complex neurological conditions and created an approach for separating twins who are fused at the brain and skull, according to the medical center, where he worked for three decades.
In 2016, he famously led a team of doctors in a 27-hour-long procedure to separate 13-month-old twin boys.
Goodrich was not only a "pioneer" in his field, but also "a humble and truly caring man" remembered for baking holiday cookies and delivering them to the Children's Hospital nurses each year, Montefiore Medical Center officials said in a statement.
"Dr. Goodrich was a beacon of our institution and he will be truly missed," Montefiore Medicine CEO Dr. Philip Ozuah said in a statement. "His expertise and ability were second only to his kind heart and manner."
Army Capt. Douglas Linn Hickok, of the New Jersey National Guard, was a drilling guardsman in the medical command and a civilian physician assistant.
His daughter, Shandrea Hickok, says her favorite memories are the adventures her father took her and her brother on.
"He loved to travel and take us to parks, museums, battleships, military bases, movie theaters, beaches, and restaurants," Shandrea Hickok said in a statement. "He also loved to go hiking, including up in the mountains of Utah where I went to school or on the Appalachian Trail where he lived in Pennsylvania. He enjoyed learning about wilderness survival and attended many medical conferences that had outdoor trainings."
"I love how caring and devoted my dad was," she said. "He traveled a lot for work but would drive hours to visit my brother and I. When I graduated college last year in Utah, he flew out to Utah and got a rental truck to drive me back to the East Coast. We had great memories driving through the Rocky Mountains."
His sister, Mary Hickok Scott, called her brother "fearless" and said he "kept serving others, even at his own risk! He loved medicine & he fought for the best treatments for his patients. My brother loved serving his country."
Jeff Hopkins, 41, who died on April 1, was a deputy with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office in Colorado.
He had been with the department since 2001 and leaves behind his wife, Wendy.
It is with profound sadness we announce Deputy Jeff Hopkins while off duty, passed away on April 1 from the COVID-19 virus. Deputy Hopkins was 41 years old and leaves behind his wife, Wendy. Deputy Hopkins has been employed with the Sheriff's Office since 2001. #NeverForgotten pic.twitter.com/JhNbhdyXiA
— EPCSheriff (@EPCSheriff) April 2, 2020
Kim King-Smith, who died on March 31, was an EKG technician working the night shift at the University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey, said Dr. Shereef Elnahal, President and CEO of the hospital.
"We lost a great one," Elnahal tweeted. "Kim King-Smith was a hero."
"She was a front line hero. God bless her," said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Silvia Melendez, from Utah, was just 24 years old.
According to her brother, her immune system was weakened from an open heart surgery two years ago,
"She's the one that helped a lot of people, very open heart, and amazing, amazing. I will miss her, I will miss her so much," her father, Marcos Melendez, told CBS affiliate KUTV in Salt Lake City.
"You could communicate with Silvia through your looks and she would give you these eyes and you would already know what she was saying, and she would know what you were saying," her friend Acacia Probert told KUTV.
Her family said they plan to hold a celebration of life once quarantine has ended.
Maria Mercader, 54, was a cancer survivor and a CBS News journalist for three decades, joining the network in 1987.
"Even more than her talents as a journalist, we will miss her indomitable spirit," Susan Zirinsky, CBS News president and senior executive producer, said in a statement released by the network.
"Even when she was hospitalized — and she knew something was going on at CBS, she would call with counsel, encouragement, and would say 'you can do this,'" Zirinksy said. "I called Maria a 'warrior,' she was. Maria was a gift we cherished."
It is with profound sadness that I share with you the loss of a dear member of our CBS News family. Maria Mercader, who embodied all of a journalist's vital traits, foremost the fearlessness she showed battling cancer and now Covid19. She was a warrior. Love Z pic.twitter.com/jlR6txkDvX
— Susan Zirinsky (@szirinsky) March 29, 2020
"The Maria we are privileged to call family and friend knew better than most the power of relationships, loyalty, faith, kindness, perseverance and a smile, even when a smile defied the darkness of the moment," added Ingrid Ciprian-Matthews, CBS News' EVP of strategic professional development. "Her notable professional contributions are part of the CBS Archives, but it is her magnificent human spirit that touched so many of us, that will stay with us forever."
MaryBeth Papetti, 65, who is survived by her husband, son and daughter-in-law, "devoted her life to her family and her work in the healthcare field," according to her obituary.
After becoming a registered nurse, Papetti, who died on March 24, became the director of nursing at several long-term care facilities in New Jersey,
"MaryBeth was known for going above and beyond in her career, not only because of her dedication to her patients, but also for being an inspirational role model to her colleagues," her obituary said.
"She especially found joy in planning family gatherings, in particular her annual family Christmas Eve party," and recently helping plan her son and daughter-in-law's wedding.
Papetti was also an aunt of an ABC News employee.
Phillip Perry was the principal of G.W. Carver Middle School in Texas.
"Mr. Perry has been a role model to countless students in our district and in his neighborhood," said a statement from the Waco Independent School District. "He cared deeply for his students and colleagues at G.W. Carver Middle School, providing guidance and support at any time.
"In addition to serving as principal at Carver, Mr. Perry often umpired local baseball games and refereed basketball games, offering words of encouragement to young athletes."
Sypraseuth "Bud" Phouangphrachanh, a deputy sheriff with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina, died on March 31 and is survived by his wife and five children, said Sheriff Chris Watkins.
"Deputy Phouangphrachanh was affectionately known as "Deputy Bud" by his co-workers, community and his students where he served as a School Resource Officer," Watkins said in a statement published by ABC Charlotte affiliate WSOC.
"During his service to Montgomery County he filled many roles, but his passion was as a School Resource Officer where he worked with middle school and high school students," Watkins said. "His dedication to youth led him to attend DARE Instructor Training, which he loved and believed in as a tool to better his community."
Our hearts and prayers go out to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office as the entire country mourns the loss of Deputy Sheriff and School Resource Officer Sypraseuth "Bud" Phouangphrachanh who passed away due to COVID-19 complications. From one #MCSO to another. 🖤💙 pic.twitter.com/abbBCbWAnu
— Meck Sheriff (@MeckSheriff) April 1, 2020
Janice Preschel, 60, of Teaneck, New Jersey, "was the founder of the Helping Hands Food Pantry that has fed countless families for more than a decade," tweeted New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
"She was active in her temple – Temple Emeth – and was a past president of the Teaneck Rotary," he wrote.
Saddened by the loss of Janice Preschel of Teaneck. Janice was the founder of the Helping Hands Food Pantry that has fed countless families for more than a decade. She was active in her temple – Temple Emeth – and was a past president of the Teaneck Rotary. She was 60 years old. pic.twitter.com/l29iO749t8
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 1, 2020
Wayne Reese Sr., 74, was a beloved high school football coach in New Orleans.
Reese played football for Tennessee State and the Los Angeles Rams before spending more than 40 years as a head coach in his native New Orleans, reported Nola.com.
"He was a great man and role model and assisted so many inner-city student-athletes in getting to college and getting a degree," the Louisiana High School Coaches Association told ABC News.
Isaac Robinson was a state representative for Michigan's 4th House District.
"Rep. Isaac Robinson had a huge heart, a quick wit, and a genuine passion for the people," tweeted Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. "He was a fierce advocate for Detroiters and people across Southeast Michigan."
"He dedicated his career to ensuring justice and security for those he served, and the impact he had on his community will continue to be felt for years to come. Rep. Robinson will be missed by many, including me," she tweeted. "It was an honor to serve the people of Michigan alongside him."
My deepest condolences go out his family and loved ones, and to the people of Detroit and Hamtramck who elected him as their voice in the House.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) March 30, 2020
Robinson died on March 29.
Dan Spector was a Memphis artist who was gifted from an early age, his younger sister, Rachel Spector Peak, told ABC News.
After attending the Rhode Island School of Design, Spector launched a career in industrial design and started his own company for architectural molds and reproductions, Peak said.
"I'm on overload right now," she said.
Peak said her brother's funeral was held online, which she said was a "tremendous help."
"It was very painful. I mean to watch your brother get buried by video – to watch your brother period get buried is painful," she said. "At least I was able to see him and I could hear the rabbi's prayers and I could see the other people that were there, you know, on my iPad."
Israel Tolentino Jr. was a firefighter in Passaic, New Jersey, who came on the job in December 2018.
"He was liked immediately. A wonderful, wonderful person. And he fit right in to that tour and made it his home," his fire chief, Patrick Trentacost, told ABC News. "We are family... we are there for 24 hours. We sleep there. And we laugh together and we cry together."
Tolentino "was always happy to jump in" to do fire education at local schools, said Trentacost.
The chief said that what made it especially difficult was that they couldn't give him the full honors they normally would bestow on a fallen member.
"We did our best, but we had to keep our distance. We had to maintain our personnel in the vehicles," Trentacost said. "We have to set the example for safety. We have to set the example of social distance. And we did it. We gave as much respect and honor as we possibly could. Certainly we couldn't go there and hug his wife Maria, who is a tremendous person. We couldn't hug his kids."
James Villecco, 55, was an auto mechanic with New York City's fire department, most recently working in the ambulance repair shop. "Behind the thousands of calls our members respond to every day is a team of dedicated and skilled mechanics who ensure our ambulances are running 24/7," said Daniel Nigro, Commissioner of the FDNY. "James Villecco was one of those truly unsung heroes in our Department whose outstanding work provided medical care for the people of our city. The entire Department mourns his loss." Villecco, who died on March 29, lived in State Island and served six years in the Army, the FDNY said.
He is survived by his wife, Joy, and daughter, Jessica.
Bernard Waddell, Sr. was a correctional police officer in Hudson County, New Jersey, who died after 28 years of service, according to the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association.
"He's going to be sorely missed," said Ron Edwards, director of the Hudson County Department of Corrections, according to NJ.com. "He was more than just an officer. He was a gentleman."
New Jersey's governor, Phil Murphy, called him a front-line hero.
We're heartbroken by the loss of veteran Hudson County Corrections Officer Bernard Waddell. He served for 28 years, and was a front-line hero. pic.twitter.com/JdbAsBVfuY
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 2, 2020
ABC News' Kiara Brantley Jones, Abigail Roberts, Sony Salzman, Katherine Carroll, Jeff Cook, Andrea Dresdale, Joshua Hoyos and Mariya Moseley contributed to this report.
