Avery Jacobs, Beloved Former Ambulance Driver and EMT from Cleveland, OH, Dies Unexpectedly: Devoted Friend, Family Member, and Lifesaving First Responder Remembered for His Selflessness and Compassionate Service – Obituary, Death”
The Cleveland, Ohio community is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Avery Jacobs, a former ambulance driver and emergency medical technician (EMT), whose unexpected death has left family, friends, and colleagues in deep shock and sadness. Known for his unwavering commitment to helping others, Avery touched countless lives throughout his career in emergency medical services. His death has not only created a profound sense of loss but also left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, loved him, and worked alongside him during his many years of service to the community.
Born on March 19, 1986, in Cleveland, Ohio, Avery was raised in a loving family that fostered a strong sense of responsibility and compassion for others. From an early age, Avery was known for his kind-hearted nature, always willing to lend a helping hand to those around him. His parents, Jonathan and Michelle Jacobs, instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and empathy, which would come to define the way Avery lived his life and approached his work. As the youngest of three children, Avery developed a deep bond with his siblings, Melissa and Brian, and cherished the tight-knit relationship he shared with his family.
Avery attended Cleveland Heights High School, where he quickly became known as a standout student with a passion for both academics and extracurricular activities. His charismatic personality and genuine concern for others earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, and he was involved in a variety of community service efforts throughout his time in school. Avery’s desire to help people was evident from an early age, and his dedication to his community only deepened as he grew older. It was during his high school years that Avery discovered his passion for emergency medical services, after participating in a ride-along program with a local ambulance team.
After graduating from high school in 2004, Avery pursued his dream of becoming an EMT by enrolling in the paramedic program at Cuyahoga Community College. His time in the program further solidified his commitment to saving lives and providing critical care to those in need. Avery excelled in his studies and quickly earned his certification as an EMT. His natural ability to remain calm under pressure and his quick thinking in emergency situations made him an invaluable asset to any team he worked with.
In 2006, Avery began his career as an ambulance driver and EMT in Cleveland, working with local emergency services to provide life-saving care to those in critical need. Over the course of his career, Avery responded to countless emergencies, from car accidents to medical crises, always putting the safety and well-being of his patients above all else. His colleagues describe him as a calm and composed professional who had an exceptional ability to make patients feel safe and cared for, even in the most stressful situations. His patients often expressed their gratitude for Avery’s comforting presence and reassuring demeanor during times of crisis.
One of Avery’s closest colleagues, Sarah Williams, who worked alongside him for many years, shared her memories of Avery’s dedication and kindness. “Avery was one of those rare people who had a way of making everyone around him feel at ease, even in the midst of an emergency. His calm demeanor, his compassion, and his unwavering dedication to his work made him an incredible EMT and an even better friend,” she said. “There were so many times when I watched him go above and beyond for his patients, staying long after the ambulance had arrived at the hospital just to make sure they were okay. That’s who Avery was—someone who truly cared about the people he was helping.”
Avery’s ability to connect with others extended beyond his professional life. He was known for his infectious sense of humor and his ability to light up any room he walked into. His friends and family often remarked on his warm, friendly nature and his deep loyalty to those he loved. Whether it was sharing a laugh with friends, offering support to someone in need, or spending time with his family, Avery’s presence was always a source of joy and comfort to those around him.
Avery’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He was deeply devoted to his parents, Jonathan and Michelle, and remained close to his siblings, Melissa and Brian, throughout his life. His bond with his family was unbreakable, and he was a constant source of support and love for them. In a statement released by his family following his passing, they expressed their grief and gratitude for the outpouring of love they have received from the community. “Avery was the heart of our family,” the statement read. “He brought so much love, laughter, and kindness into our lives, and his loss is immeasurable. We are devastated by his passing, but we are also deeply grateful for the love and support we have received from those who knew and loved Avery. He touched so many lives, and we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone he helped and cared for.”
In addition to his work as an EMT, Avery was actively involved in various community service efforts throughout Cleveland. He volunteered at local food banks, participated in charity runs, and was a regular supporter of organizations dedicated to improving public health and safety. Avery’s commitment to service was not limited to his work as a first responder—he believed in giving back to his community in any way he could, and he often used his free time to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed.
Tragically, Avery’s life was cut short on October 4, 2024, when he passed away unexpectedly due to complications from a sudden medical condition. The news of his death has left his family, friends, and colleagues reeling, as they come to terms with the loss of a man who had dedicated so much of his life to helping others. The Cleveland EMS community, in particular, has been deeply affected by Avery’s passing, as they remember a colleague who embodied the values of compassion, dedication, and selflessness.
In the days following Avery’s death, tributes have poured in from across the city. Friends, coworkers, and former patients have shared their memories of Avery, offering words of comfort and support to his grieving family. One former patient, who was treated by Avery following a serious car accident, described him as “an angel in the midst of chaos.” She recalled how Avery had not only provided her with medical care but had also stayed by her side in the hospital, offering words of encouragement and support during a frightening time. “He didn’t just save my life—he gave me hope when I needed it most,” she said. “I will never forget his kindness and the way he made me feel like everything was going to be okay.”
As the Cleveland community continues to mourn Avery’s passing, plans for a public memorial service are currently being finalized. The service will provide an opportunity for friends, family, colleagues, and community members to come together to honor Avery’s life and celebrate his legacy of service. In addition, a scholarship fund is being established in Avery’s name to support future EMTs and paramedics who share his passion for helping others. The scholarship will be awarded to students pursuing careers in emergency medical services, ensuring that Avery’s legacy of compassion and dedication continues for years to come.
In lieu of flowers, Avery’s family has asked that donations be made to the Cleveland EMS Foundation, an organization that supports first responders and promotes public health and safety initiatives. These donations will help ensure that Avery’s commitment to saving lives and improving public health will continue to make a difference, even in his absence.
As the Cleveland community reflects on Avery’s life and the impact he had on those around him, there is a shared sense of gratitude for the time they had with him. Avery’s selflessness, kindness, and dedication to his work touched countless lives, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. Though his life was tragically cut short, the legacy he leaves behind is one of love, service, and compassion.
Rest in peace, Avery Jacobs. Your life was a testament to the power of kindness, and your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know you. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on in the hearts of your family, friends, and the countless lives you touched throughout your career.
