'Died A Hero': LI Helps Family Of Man Who Died During Vacation Rescue

DDER PARK, NY — A Long Island family is mourning the loss of a beloved Deer Park man after a family vacation in Bermuda turned into a life-changing tragedy last week.

They were on a cruise when Jamie Lambros, 48, of Deer Park, died Oct. 7 after attempting to rescue a mother and her 10-year-old son struggling to swim at Horseshoe Bay Beach, according to The Royal Gazette.

Less than a week later, instead of reminiscing over vacation photos, Lambros' mother, Phyllis Gasparri, and brothers, Joey Pappas, are fundraising to get his body home to Long Island and honor him with a funeral.

On the GoFundMe Pappas wrote:

"Dear friends, family, and kind strangers,

"It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden loss of our beloved Jamie Lambros. While on vacation in Bermuda, Jamie tragically passed away saving a ten-year-old child from drowning. In his final moments, Jamie showed the courage and selflessness that those who knew him will always remember. He died a hero, giving his life so another could live.

"Jamie was so much more than a son, brother, uncle, cousin, godfather and friend – he was the life of every party, someone whose laughter filled any room, and whose heart was as big as his spirit. His loss leaves an unimaginable void in all our lives.

"We are raising funds to support Jamie's family during this incredibly difficult time. Donations will help cover funeral costs and the unexpected expenses of bringing Jamie back home from Bermuda. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated.

"Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this heartbreaking time.

"With love and gratitude, Jamie's Family

"Jamie would do it for you. So do it for him."

Click here to donate.

Pappas and Gasparri were not immediately available for comment.