Memphis Hero Dies Saving Child from Wolf River — Community Mourns Loss of Thaddeus Smiley

MEMPHIS, TN (June 2, 2025) — A Memphis community is in mourning after the tragic death of 31-year-old Thaddeus Smiley, who heroically gave his life while rescuing a child from drowning in the Wolf River over the weekend.

The incident occurred on Friday afternoon near Walnut Grove Road, where a group of 11 friends and family members had gathered to enjoy the day by the river. According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the peaceful outing took a devastating turn when a young child from the group accidentally slipped into the river and began struggling against the current.

Without hesitation, two adult brothers, including Thaddeus, jumped into the swift water to save the child. One of them reached the child and successfully brought them back to shore. But Thaddeus — who was described by friends as “always selfless, always first to help” — never resurfaced.

Search Efforts Span Two Days

Emergency services were quickly alerted, and search and rescue crews from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Memphis Fire Department, and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency launched a massive effort to locate Thaddeus. Dive teams, boats, and aerial drones were used throughout the weekend.

Despite exhaustive efforts and growing concern from the community, Thaddeus was not located until Sunday morning — nearly two days later — when his body was discovered approximately half a mile downstream from where he was last seen.

Officials confirmed that the current in the area had been particularly strong due to recent rainfall, complicating both the rescue effort and the recovery.

A Community Grieves a Selfless Act

The loss of Thaddeus Smiley has shaken the city and drawn tributes from neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. On Sunday evening, candles, flowers, and hand-written notes began appearing at the riverbank near the site of the incident. Messages honoring his bravery, his character, and his ultimate sacrifice flooded social media throughout the weekend.

“Thaddeus was one of those rare people who would give you the shirt off his back,” said his cousin, Malcolm Reese. “That’s just who he was — always stepping up. Always protecting others. That child is alive today because of him.”

Family members describe Thaddeus as a dedicated uncle, loyal friend, and a hard-working Memphian who worked in local logistics and was well-known in his neighborhood for helping elderly residents with errands and yard work.

“He didn’t hesitate,” said Andrea Holt, a close family friend. “He saw someone in danger and he didn’t think twice. That’s what makes it so hard. It’s what made him so special.”

Mayor and Officials Respond

In a statement issued Sunday, Memphis Mayor Paul Young expressed his condolences and praised Thaddeus as a true hero.

“Thaddeus Smiley’s sacrifice reminds us of the everyday heroes who walk among us — people who act not for recognition but because it’s the right thing to do. We mourn this heartbreaking loss with his family and the entire Memphis community.”

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office also issued a statement offering support to the family and commending the bravery shown during the rescue.

Memorial and Support for the Family

A vigil is planned for Wednesday evening at the Wolf River Greenway, where community members will gather to light candles, share memories, and honor Thaddeus’s life and legacy. Friends have also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the family cover funeral expenses and provide financial support during this difficult time.

Grief counselors are being made available for family members, especially those who were present at the scene.

A Legacy of Courage

While his life was tragically cut short, Thaddeus Smiley leaves behind a legacy of compassion, courage, and selflessness — values that will continue to resonate with those who knew him and even those who didn’t.

“He died a hero,” said family spokesperson Cynthia Boone. “We want the world to remember his name, not just for how he died — but for how he lived.”

As the Memphis community gathers to mourn and celebrate his life, Thaddeus Smiley stands as a powerful reminder of the strength and bravery that can live in everyday people.