Naples police officer remembered as community champion who cared deeply for children

A Naples police officer who died during an off-duty crash on Thursday is remembered as a champion of the community with a big heart for children.

Sgt. Jeff Reidy was a 10-year veteran of the Naples Police Department, who most recently was assigned to the patrol division. During his career with Naples, he served in many roles, including as a patrol officer, a D.A.R.E. instructor, and a detective specializing in special victims crimes and domestic violence.

In 2019, he was made sergeant.

Reidy died in a traffic crash on Corkscrew Road in Lee County on Thursday after a vehicle in front of him slowed down for a construction zone. Reidy attempted evasive action but instead hit the vehicle, crossed the center lane and collided with a cement truck, according to the Florida Highway patrol which investigated the crash.

Funeral services are scheduled for Reidy for February, 27 at Cambier Park in Naples

Reidy was passionate about helping children. The 41-year-old father had four children of his own.

Reidy’s co-workers say he never stopped raving about his kids.

Paulette Naurath was a dispatcher who retired from the Naples Police Department three years ago.

“When I first met Jeff, I was on the radio dispatching and I would dispatch him to police calls,” Naurath said.

Reidy made a lasting impression on Naurath.

“I just remember him being very respectful and very nice … if you needed anything if you needed any help from him … Jeff would have helped anybody,” Naurath said.

Reidy worked for the Family Safety Program at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Collier County.

Jackie Stephens, CEO at the Children’s Advocacy Center, said Reidy was a caring officer who cared for the children in the community.

“When there’s so much things that could happen on duty and when it happens off duty it’s such a shame,” Naurath said.