Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace Sheriff Read.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 9, 2020

I was a nine (9) year-old boy and this incident happened on a Sunday. Church had ended and everyone was standing outside the church. Suddenly, the local ambulance stopped by the church for a reason that remains unknown. we later learned that Sheriff Read had been shot and was being transported to the hospital in nearby (30 miles) Gainesville. The ambulance was being driven by Mrs. Nell Dodson, whose family operated the local funeral home - and ambulance service. I can only speculate that she stopped in hopes of having a doctor or nurse attend to the Sheriff. As quickly as she arrived, she soon left, driving emergency with lights and siren. We later learned that afternoon that Sheriff Read had passed away from his injuries.

Michael A. Watson, Age 72, civilian
No agency or familial relationship.

November 26, 2019

Sheriff Mark Read will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in Heaven.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb (Retired)
New York State Police

April 22, 2018

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

April 19, 2018

The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director Steve Casey
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 27, 2016

We will never forget the heroes who gave their all, and you sir are a hero. May you continue to rest in peace Sheriff Read.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

December 9, 2012

Rest in Peace, Sheriff Read. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

February 10, 2012

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 55th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, PPD, eow 4/24/05

December 10, 2011

Continue to rest in peace Sheriff, we will never forget.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

Deb

December 9, 2011

No matter how many years have passed since your EOW, you sir are not forgotten. HEROES do live forever.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

Anonymous

December 9, 2010

You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service

vandenberghe
manchester, NH

December 5, 2007

Sheriff Read,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your murder, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Gilchrist County.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

December 9, 2006