At her funeral, heartbreaking tributes highlight the personality of dead Chicago policeman Ella French.
We got a lot deeper look at who Ella French was from the individuals who loved her
the most during the burial for slain Chicago Police Officer Ella French on Thursday.
French’s mother, her former coworker, her godfather, and even the father of her
coworker, Officer Carlos Yanez Jr., who was wounded in the same event and is currently battling for his life in the hospital, sent heartfelt tributes.
Officer French’s mother, Elizabeth French, stood poised in a white shirt in front of hundreds of mourners at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, 7740 S. Western Ave., while stating she was only standing before them with half her heart.
Ms. French said, “I have two children, Ella and Andrew.” “They have a special place in my heart. I’m here today with just half of my
heart.”
Elizabeth French spoke in front of a sea of law enforcement officers, presenting a beautiful, personal picture of her connection with
her 29-year-old daughter, Ella French, whom she adopted when she was only 8 months old.
She spoke directly to the police enforcement officers who were observing from the seats and stood at attention outside.
“Ella and I appreciate your assistance. Elizabeth French remarked, “God bless you all.” “I end with the same words I usually told Ella
before she left for work: be cautious and safe.”
Elizabeth French also read a letter regarding Ella’s adoption that she sent to her in 2002.
Ms. French read, “Please know that adopting you was one of the greatest things I ever did in my life.” “With all my heart, I adore you.
Mom.”
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Ella was taken to the French family’s house by Catholic Charities when she was 8 months old.
Ms. French remarked, “It was a grin that lighted up your face, my home, and grabbed my heart.” “I knew then that you would be my
daughter for the rest of your life, God willing.”
Also, Officer French’s family spoke about how determined she was to make a difference in the world, which is why she became a cop.
Officer French’s godfather, David Tinberg, also recounted tales of how she had a positive effect on others throughout her brief life.
“You are remembered, Ella Grace. Ella Grace, know that you are adored. “You made a difference, Ella Grace,” Timberg remarked.
Also, Old and fresh faces from all across the city flocked to the church to pay their respects. Mayor Lori Lightfoot and former Mayor
Richard M. Daley, as well as current police Superintendent David Brown and former police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, were
among those present.
Officer French’s “connectedness” – both to the community she served and to the individuals with whom she worked – was
highlighted by Chicago Archbishop Blase Cardinal Cupich in his homily.
Officer Josh Blas, her former partner, attested to this.
Also, “When you spend nine hours a day in a vehicle with someone – and put them in some of the circumstances that partners are
placed in– you learn a lot about them,” Blas added.
Also, “She really cared about people and would always ask if you needed anything – simply to see if she could be of assistance and
brighten someone’s day,” Blas added. “Ella, you’re an excellent cop, friend, and partner. Thank you so much for all of the wonderful
memories. “I’m missing you.”
And leave it to Officer Yanez Jr.’s father to turn any lingering dry eyes inside and outside the church to tears.
Yanez was French’s companion at the time of her death, and she was severely injured.
When they told him Ella French didn’t make it, his father claimed he’d never seen his son so sad or in such agony.
“I, too, have a shattered heart. “One part of my heart is sad and crushed because I understand Ella’s mother’s anguish as a parent, and
the other half of my heart is grateful to God that my son is still alive,” said Carlos Yanez Sr., a former Chicago police officer. “We are
now family as we spoke.”
Although it rained hard for most of the service, the large number of police enforcement officers that gathered outside to pay their
respects was unaffected.
Officer French was clearly liked and respected, as shown by their steadfast support.
French had been on the job since 2018 when he was tragically shot during a traffic check in West Englewood.
Also, Officer French, 29, of the Community Safety Team, performed the traffic stop between 63rd Street and Bell Avenue in West
Englewood about 9 p.m. Saturday. Yanez was shot and severely injured, and she was killed.
Eric and Emonte Moore, two siblings, have been accused of the shooting.
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