By Sarah Calams
AVONDALE, Ariz. — An Arizona corrections officer died June 7 from COVID-19 complications.
ABC15.com reported that Alvin “Al” Ramirez, 49, worked at Perryville Prison for more than 11 years before transferring to Avondale Jail, where he worked for 16 years.
“He risked his life, always serving with honor, dignity and courage,” Ramirez’s obituary said. “He was a leader, protector and provider to the whole community. A devoted husband, son, father, brother and loyal friend who will be truly missed by all who knew him.”
Ramirez contracted COVID-19 in May and had been in the ICU on a ventilator, according to a GoFundMe page created for his family. The page has raised over $20,000.
Ramirez leaves behind his wife and two sons.
“Al served the City of Avondale and the Avondale Police Department for over 16 years as a detention officer with prior years at the Department of Corrections. He was a great husband, father and friend. He will truly be missed by all,” the Avondale Police Department posted on Facebook.