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Celebration of life held for Denver deputy who died of COVID-19

Deputy James Herrera died at age 51 with his family by his side. A celebration of life was held Saturday morning.

DENVER — A longtime deputy with the Denver Sheriff Department (DSD) has died of COVID-19.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share Denver Sheriff Deputy James Herrera passed away earlier today from COVID-19 with his immediate family by his side," Sheriff Elias Diggins said in a statement. "Herrera is a 25 year veteran of the DSD and was assigned to the Downtown Detention Center. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers and respect their privacy during this difficult time.” 

A celebration of life for Herrera was held Saturday morning at Horan & McConaty Chapel at 9998 Grant St. in Thornton.

>> WATCH THE FULL SERVICE IN THE VIDEO PLAYER BELOW

Prior to Saturday's service, a vehicle procession left the Downtown Detention Center. The general route for the procession was:

  • West on West Colfax Avenue
  • North on Speer Boulevard
  • North on Interstate 25
  • East on Thornton Parkway
  • North on Grant Street

The union that represents Denver deputies, Denver Sheriff FOP Lodge #27, said in a tweet that Herrera's death happened in the line of duty. A spokesperson for the department said that has not been determined.

Herrera was 51 years old.

RELATED: Deputy’s death from COVID-19 happened in the line of duty, health department finds

RELATED: Denver jails administer first COVID-19 vaccines

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