The skydiving community is reeling from the tragic loss of Devrey Jane, a beloved Parachute Rigger and Tandem Instructor at Skydive Perris. Devrey, a resident of Perris, California, lost her life in a parachuting accident, leaving behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and love for skydiving. The news of her untimely death has sent shockwaves through her community and among those who knew and loved her. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover her funeral expenses and bring her home to Maine, where she will be laid to rest.
Devrey Jane’s passing was announced through a heartfelt social media post that read, “PLEASE SAY A PRAYER FOR MY FAMILY. I am completely heartbroken to even say this out loud but our sweet Devrey Jane went to be with the Lord yesterday. She had an unrelenting love and devotion to my son. There’s nothing more a mom could ask for her son. She will be FOREVER missed.” This poignant message underscores the deep impact Devrey had on those around her, particularly her family and close friends.
Who Was Devrey Jane?
Devrey LaRiccia, known to her friends and colleagues as Devrey Jane, was born in Denver, Colorado, and raised in Maine. She was a 2013 graduate of York County Community College, where she began to carve out a path that would eventually lead her to the skies. Her journey into skydiving was marked by various roles that showcased her dedication and enthusiasm for the sport.
In 2014, Devrey worked as a Server at The Beachmere Inn in Ogunquit, Maine. Her journey in the skydiving industry began in earnest in 2015 when she took on the role of Manifest at Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle, Illinois. Her commitment to the sport was evident as she continued to work as a Counter at PVSS at Skydive Perris from 2016 to 2017. Most recently, Devrey was a Parachute Rigger and Tandem Instructor at Skydive Perris in Perris, California.
Devrey’s passion for skydiving was not just a career; it was a calling. She was known for her unwavering dedication to her students and her colleagues. Her expertise and enthusiasm were infectious, making her a beloved figure at Skydive Perris and in the broader skydiving community.
A Life Dedicated to Skydiving and Community
Devrey’s journey into skydiving was marked by her deep commitment to the sport and the people she met along the way. As a Parachute Rigger, she ensured that the equipment used by herself and others was in top condition, reflecting her meticulous attention to detail and her dedication to safety. As a Tandem Instructor, she introduced countless individuals to the exhilarating experience of skydiving, guiding them through their first jumps with confidence and care.
Her colleagues at Skydive Perris remember her as a bright light, someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand and share her knowledge. Devrey’s infectious smile and positive attitude made her a joy to be around, and her loss is felt deeply by those who had the privilege of working with her.
The Devastating Accident
The details of the accident that claimed Devrey’s life are still under investigation, but the impact of her loss is immediate and profound. Skydiving, while exhilarating, carries inherent risks, and the skydiving community is acutely aware of the dangers. Devrey’s passing serves as a stark reminder of these risks and the importance of safety in the sport she loved.
The news of Devrey’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the skydiving community and beyond. Friends, colleagues, and even those who only knew her through her work have expressed their condolences and shared memories of her vibrant spirit and dedication.
Fundraising for Funeral Expenses
In the wake of this tragedy, Marcelline LaRiccia has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the funeral expenses and bring Devrey’s body back to Maine. The campaign aims to raise $50,000, and as of this writing, it has already garnered $28,025. The support from the community is a testament to the impact Devrey had on those around her.
The GoFundMe page reads, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the tragic passing of our beloved daughter and sister, Devrey LaRiccia. Due to the circumstances, we need assistance to help Devrey get home to Maine and to the final resting place that all who knew and loved her know she deserves.” This plea for assistance highlights the financial burden that such a sudden and tragic loss can place on a family.
Remembering Devrey Jane
Devrey Jane’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and an unyielding love for life. Her impact on the skydiving community and those who knew her personally is immeasurable. As her family and friends grapple with their grief, they are also committed to honoring her memory and ensuring that her spirit lives on.
The outpouring of support through the GoFundMe campaign and the heartfelt messages shared on social media are a testament to the love and respect that Devrey commanded. Her family, while devastated by her loss, is also buoyed by the knowledge that she touched so many lives in a positive way.
A Call to Action
Devrey’s untimely death is also a call to action for the skydiving community and beyond. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and the need for continuous improvement in training and equipment standards. The skydiving community, while resilient, must always strive to learn from such tragedies and work towards preventing future accidents.
A Legacy of Love and Dedication
As her family prepares to lay Devrey to rest, they do so with heavy hearts but also with a profound sense of pride. Devrey lived her life with passion and dedication, and her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her. Her legacy is one of love, not just for skydiving, but for her family, friends, and everyone she encountered.
In the words of those who knew her best, Devrey Jane will be “FOREVER missed.” Her spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. As the community rallies around her family, they do so with the hope that Devrey’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift, even in the face of such a tragic loss.
A Future Without Devrey
The future without Devrey is undoubtedly a daunting prospect for her family and friends. However, they are committed to honoring her memory and ensuring that her passion and dedication continue to inspire. The funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will not only help cover the immediate costs but also provide a foundation for ongoing support for her family as they navigate this difficult time.
Devrey’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Her loss is deeply felt, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The skydiving community, and all those who were touched by Devrey’s spirit, will carry her legacy forward, ensuring that her passion and dedication are never forgotten.
The GoFundMe page
