SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The family of Susan “Suzie” Smith, a dedicated flight nurse who died from injuries sustained in a medical helicopter crash on Highway 50, announced plans for a special procession and memorial in her honor this weekend.
What Happened
Suzie Smith was one of three crew members aboard the medical helicopter that crashed on Monday. She succumbed to her injuries in the hospital days later, while the other crew members remain hospitalized.
To honor her life and service, Reach Air Medical Services will conduct a final flight from Sacramento to Red Bluff, scheduled to depart around 1 p.m. and arrive at approximately 2 p.m. Upon landing, Smith will be transported by ground ambulance to Palo Cedro, escorted by family, EMS, and law enforcement agencies.
The public is invited to safely line the route to pay respects, following Interstate 5 north from Red Bluff to State Route 44 east, then south on Deschutes Road to Allen and Dahl Funeral Home. Authorities have requested that no one stop on the freeway or block side streets, and there will be no public parking or visitation at the funeral home.
A Celebration of Life is being planned to allow the community to honor her legacy further.
Who Was Suzie Smith?
Suzie Smith dedicated 50 years to nursing, including nearly 21 years with REACH Air Medical Services. She was widely recognized as a compassionate pillar of the EMS and healthcare community, saving countless lives and uplifting patients, colleagues, and the community alike.
In her family’s words:
“Suzie’s life was not wasted but poured out with purpose, courage, and deep intention. Her legacy reminds us to live boldly, love freely, and never hold back the good we can give when we follow Him.”
Legacy and Memorial Fund
In honor of her life, the family is establishing a memorial fund, Our Angel That Flies Foundation, which will support nursing scholarships, mission work, and community outreach — causes close to Smith’s heart.
REACH Air Medical Services released a statement praising Smith’s career:
“We will remember Suzie as a pillar of the EMS and healthcare community who saved countless lives by delivering compassionate care in their darkest hours… Her impact will be felt for years to come through the lives she touched, the teams she strengthened, and the compassion she embodied.”
Public and Community Response
The community has rallied around the family, offering support and prayers during this difficult time. Smith’s life and career left an indelible mark on the EMS community, and the procession allows the public to celebrate her contributions safely.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as plans for the Celebration of Life and memorial fund develop. Suzie Smith’s legacy of compassion, courage, and service will continue to inspire future generations of nurses and EMS professionals.
The post Sacramento Flight Nurse Suzie Smith Honored with Special Procession Following Helicopter Crash first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
