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Saturday, July 23, 2011 | 
As you may have recently heard, the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department are mourning the off-duty passing of fellow Firefighter Eric Shepherd.
The LAFD would like to share some additional information about this very special man...
Eric Shepherd was born on July 12th, 1978 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. Raised in Carson, California, Eric graduated from Long Beach Jordan High School in 1996. Later that year, Eric joined the United States Air Force and served as a firefighter in Kuwait and at home at Edwards Air Force Base. After four years of dedicated service to his country, Eric was honorably discharged as a Senior Airman.In July of 2003, Eric joined the Los Angeles Fire Department. Following the drill tower and probationary assignments, Eric transferred to Fire Station 29 in Battalion 11, serving the Wilshire Center and Mid-City areas of Los Angeles. Widely recognized as a conscientious and talented firefighter, as well as a generous and genuine friend, Eric quickly earned the respect and admiration of his peers and the public he proudly served. He successfully tested for the rank of engineer and was looking forward to the added challenges and responsibilities of the promotion.
Eric died suddenly while off-duty on July 18th, 2011. He is survived by his father, Ronald and his stepmother Cindy, his mother Loretta, sister Rene, and the love of his life Cacherel Smaith, with whom he brought into this world and raised as the apple of his eye, his daughter Sarai.
He was a credit to his family and friends, his country, the fire service and his department. His warmth, laughter, and easy going demeanor will always be cherished. Eric will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Firefighter Eric Shepherd was assigned to Fire Station 29 "C" Platoon.
All members of the community are welcome to join us in celebrating the life of Firefighter Eric Shepherd.
Public Memorial Services for LAFD Firefighter Eric Shepherd:
- Date: Friday, July 29, 2011
- Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Location: Crenshaw Christian Center - "Faith Dome", 7901 South Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA.
- Interment: Forest Lawn, Cypress, 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA (immediately following Memorial Service)
*The Memorial Service will be streamed "live" on the "Faith Dome" (click this link) website on
Friday, July 29th from 9:30 am -12:30 pm.
*All flowers being delivered to the Crenshaw Christian Center "Faith Dome" for FF Shepherd's Memorial Service, must be delivered no later than 9:30 am on Friday, July 29, 2011.
*If you would like to make a donation, FF Eric Shepherd's Family respectfully asks that any donations be made to a fund that has been established for his young daughter, in her name:
"Sarai Shepherd Educational Fund" (Account # 10000758996)
Los Angeles Fireman's Credit Union
815 Colorado Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90041
We thank you for the outpouring of support in this time of sadness.
Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
6 comments:
While driving on the LA freeway system this afternoon, I saw multiple trucks stopped on a few different overpasses, with firefighters in full dress uniform standing on top and an American flag between two ladder trucks. I didn't know what it was at first, but based on this post, I can only assume it was a tribute to a fallen friend and co-worker. Bravo, LAFD, for this touching gesture of sorrow and unity. It makes me proud to call myself a Los Angelino.
Anonymous 1:59,
Thank you for taking time to seek the story behind today's display of respect to our dearly missed colleague. We are touched by your kind words, and hope that our need to join the community in saying goodbye did not cause any manner of inconvenience to you and other motorists.
Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department
The tribute was shared with the high risk youth that I counsel. The demonstrated respect honored life and displayed the sorrow of losing a colleague. As the result of this gesture, the Youth and I discussed the value of life, the impact it has on those that surround you, and the honor of being appreciated. Your goodbye may very well indeed redirect a life in need. Your dedication to our communities is appreciated.
I was really touched while driving through LA yesterday afternoon and seeing the firefighters on multiple overpasses. I was very confused at first and thought something was wrong. However, I happened to be in the right place at the right time and also saw the police-escorted motorcade procession. I was really proud to be an American! It was a very moving experience to go from the confusion of what was going on to the realization when I saw the motorcade. Proud to be an Angelino with such a strong crew of firefighters!
Anonymous 11:53,
Thank you for taking the time to share such thoughtful words.
As you mention, Eric Shepherd was not only a deeply respected member of our LAFD family, he was a beloved community servant. That our ritual-filled celebration of Eric's life might inspire others is a fitting testimony to a life far too short, but indeed well lived.
Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department
Anonymous 1:09,
Thank you for sharing a touching first-hand observation. We do our utmost to be brief and respectful of others as we accomplish such rituals, which are strongly woven within the fabric of our vocation.
We warmly welcome you and your loved ones to learn more about our rich LAFD history and traditions by visiting the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum in Hollywood.
Again, thank you for the kind words.
Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department
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