A Mississippi church is mourning the loss of a beloved deacon who was fatally shot while protecting others during a tragic shooting at an Easter egg hunt.
Eddie Shed, 62, was the head of security and a longtime deacon at Empowerment Ministries Christian Center in Gulfport.
On April 12, Shed died while trying to break up a violent altercation at Jack and Florence Goldin Park, where the church was hosting a family-friendly Easter event.
According to the Gulfport Police Department, the gunfire broke out during a custody dispute between attendees. Three people were shot: Shed, another person attempting to de-escalate the situation, and the suspected shooter—identified as 24-year-old Tyran Deion Gable of Saucier, Mississippi.
Shed died at the scene. Another victim was flown to a nearby state for treatment. Gable was arrested the following day and charged with murder and aggravated assault after receiving medical care.
Witnesses say Deacon Shed acted without hesitation to shield children and others in harm’s way.
“He died a hero doing what he does best—protecting and loving people,” said church member Alexis Weathersby. “He would do anything for anyone.”
Shatondria Ball, a longtime member of the church, echoed that sentiment: “I wouldn’t expect anything less from him. He was always looking out for others.”
The church described Shed’s death as “a senseless act of gun violence” and praised his bravery in a statement posted on social media.
“Deacon Shed epitomized the virtues of a hero,” the church said. “He paid the ultimate price for his valor, and we are deeply saddened by this loss.”
READ ALSO: Oklahoma Woman, Sister Stab Ex-Boyfriend 52 Times in Brutal Texas Killing
Senior Pastor Gregg S. Magee called Shed a “pillar of strength” and a man whose kindness and service touched countless lives in the Gulfport community.
As the congregation grieves, Shed is remembered not only as a protector but as a man of deep faith and unwavering compassion—someone who gave his life to save others.
