Beloved Deacon Eddie Shed Remembered as Hero After Tragic Shooting at Community Easter Event in Prudie Circle
It is with shattered hearts and profound sorrow that we, the Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, address the tragic and senseless act of violence that unfolded during what should have been a joyful occasion—our Family Easter Egg Hunt at Prudie Circle. In a moment meant for celebration, laughter, and community, we were instead faced with unimaginable heartbreak as we lost one of our own, Deacon Eddie Shed, to a horrific act of gun violence.
Deacon Shed was not only a respected spiritual leader and mentor within our congregation—he was a true hero in every sense of the word. In the face of danger, he acted with selfless bravery, standing between chaos and the innocent. His final act was one of pure courage—protecting others, shielding lives with his own, and paying the ultimate price so that others might live. His actions exemplify the deepest form of love and sacrifice, and for that, he will be remembered as more than a deacon—he will be remembered as a guardian, a protector, and a man of God.
A Pillar of Our Church and Community
Deacon Shed was the heartbeat of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center. His presence in our church family was rooted in his unwavering faith, humility, and servant’s heart. Whether leading prayer, counseling families, supporting youth programs, or simply offering a kind word and a listening ear, Eddie gave of himself fully and freely. He embodied the scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).
He believed deeply in the transformative power of love, faith, and community, and he lived those beliefs every day. From Sunday worship to midweek outreach, Deacon Shed was a steady hand, a warm smile, and a guiding voice for so many. His absence will be felt in every pew, every ministry, and every gathering where his light once shone so brightly.
A Family in Mourning
As we grieve together, our hearts are especially heavy for Deacon Shed’s beloved family—his wife Doris, and his children Jaylen, Kaleb, and KaMya, along with his mother Neloise, brother Derrick, and all who called him son, husband, father, brother, and friend. Your grief is our grief, and we hold you close in prayer and support during this devastating time. May you find strength in knowing how deeply Eddie was loved and respected by so many.
Standing in Faith Amidst the Pain
This tragedy has shaken our community, but our faith remains strong. We stand on the promises of God, even when we don’t understand the pain. We choose not to allow violence to define us, but rather to honor Deacon Shed’s legacy by continuing the work he was so passionate about—serving others, loving fiercely, and bringing hope to those in need.
As a church, we will continue to provide support and spiritual counseling to all affected by this tragedy. We ask for your continued prayers, your compassion, and your solidarity as we move forward, carrying the light that Deacon Shed left behind.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Deacon Eddie Shed may no longer walk among us, but his spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the church he helped build. He has left an indelible legacy of faith, courage, and unshakable devotion to God and community.
We vow to remember him not for the violence that took him, but for the light he shared, the lives he uplifted, and the faith he lived so boldly and beautifully.
Rest in peace, Deacon Eddie Shed. You ran your race with honor and finished strong. You are our hero, our brother, and our guiding light. May your legacy inspire generations to come.
We love you. We honor you. We will never forget you.