Memorial service for Lee County corrections deputy lost to COVID-19

On Tuesday morning, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office honored one of its own, Corrections Deputy William Diaz, who died from COVID-19. He was not only a deputy, but a father, a husband, and friend to many.

A service to celebrate his life was held at McGregor Baptist Church at 3750 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

The service was planned with Diaz’s family, and many of the sheriff’s office’s staff was involved.

Diaz is one of three members of LCSO to die from COVID-19 in the past two weeks.

Marceno said there are no words to capture the hurt everyone is feeling from this loss. Diaz was just 29 years old.

“You know, a lot of times, citizens can make the choice not to go out, not to leave their homes, they feel they’re at risk not to go into a place or building; we don’t have that luxury,” Marceno said. “And, unfortunately, our hero paid the ultimate price. So we want them to come out and support our hero, support our family member. And we want to show him the best support and give them the best sendoff possible.”

Marceno described Diaz as an amazing young man with his whole life ahead of him and says it’s going to be an “amazing” service dedicated to his life and sacrifice.

Deputy Autin Williams said, “Will ended up becoming one of my closest and trusted friends that I’ve ever made in my life … he was sincere he was honest and he was loyal.”

“It’s with a heavy heart that we speak about Deputy Diaz,” Marceno said. “Obviously, we’ve been in constant communication with his family and trying to help them go through a grieving process. I can’t imagine what they feel. We’ve been hit so hard. In the past week and a half, two weeks, we’ve now lost three to COVID. It’s devastating.”

Marceno made a point to encourage everyone to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Diaz leaves behind his wife of 11 years and a baby girl.

For those who couldn’t attend the service in person, you can watch again in the player below or click here.