Memorial service set for flight nurse killed in Sacramento helicopter crash
The family of Susan “Suzie” Smith, the veteran flight nurse who died following a medevac helicopter crash on a Sacramento freeway, will host a public celebration of life on Nov. 14 at the Redding Civic Auditorium.
The event at 700 Auditorium Drive is scheduled for 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m., according to an obituary notice posted Wednesday.
Smith, 67, was critically injured on Oct. 6 when the Reach Air Medical Services helicopter she was aboard crashed onto the eastbound lanes of Highway 50 shortly after taking off from UC Davis Medical Center. She died four days later, surrounded by her family.
A Palo Cedro resident, Smith served more than 20 years with Reach and had a 50-year nursing career that included medical missions abroad. Her colleagues described her as a “pillar of the EMS and health care community.”
“Her legacy reminds us to live boldly, love freely, and never hold back the good we can give,” her family said in a statement.
The crash, which remains under investigation by federal officials, also seriously injured pilot Chad Millward, 60, and paramedic Margaret “DeDe” Davis, 66. Both remain hospitalized at UC Davis Medical Center.
On Oct. 12, Smith’s body was flown home to the north state in a final flight from Sacramento to Red Bluff, followed by a ground procession to Palo Cedro. Community members lined the route to pay tribute.
In honor of her legacy, the Smith family is establishing a memorial fund — “Our Angel That Flies Foundation” — to support nursing education and humanitarian work. Donations are already being accepted through Plumas Bank and donors can drop off donations at any branch, Attention Matt Moseley, 192 Hartnell Ave., Redding, CA 96002.
Smith is survived by her husband, RJ; son, Gabriel; daughter, Carli; and several grandchildren.
This story was originally published October 16, 2025 at 4:38 PM.