Florida Nurse Nicole Grayson Dies After Saving Son From River Drowning

 A Florida family is grieving the loss of 43-year-old Nicole Grayson, a mother whose final act was a desperate and selfless attempt to save her young son from drowning in the St. Johns River. Her courage during the emergency has left loved ones remembering her as a devoted parent, compassionate caregiver, and someone who spent her life protecting others.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the tragedy happened Saturday in DeLand when Grayson’s 4-year-old son fell into the river while trying to retrieve an item that had gone over a wooden fence. Without hesitation, Grayson entered the water to rescue him. Her quick response helped save her child, but the effort placed her own life in danger.

Officials said a passing boater was able to pull the young boy from the water and bring him to safety. Grayson was also removed from the river and taken to a hospital for treatment. Despite emergency efforts, she later died Saturday night. The family is now mourning the loss of a mother whose final moments reflected the love and protection she showed throughout her life.

For Grayson’s children, the memory of their mother is defined by the way she always put her family first. Her oldest daughter, Montraevia Adams, described her mother as a hero and said she wanted people to remember her as someone who always carried a smile, regardless of the challenges she faced. Family members say Grayson’s kindness and warmth were qualities that made her special.

Her 17-year-old son, Dafino Devega, said his mother was the type of person who would do anything for her children. He remembered her as someone who was always present and willing to help whenever her family needed her. The loss has created a painful absence for her six children, who are now trying to understand life without the woman who cared for them every day.

Grayson’s 9-year-old son, Koron, who was also at the river during the incident, shared an emotional memory of his mother’s actions. He said she moved him away from danger because she did not want her children to be harmed. His words reflected the sacrifice family members say defined Nicole’s life: protecting her children even when it meant risking herself.

Beyond being a mother, Grayson was also known for her work caring for others as a hospice nurse. Loved ones said she dedicated herself to helping people during some of their most difficult moments. Laronda Morris, the grandmother of three of Grayson’s children, said Nicole’s children were her entire world and that being a mother was the role she cherished most.

Family members have also expressed gratitude toward the boater who rescued Grayson’s son during the emergency. They said that quick action helped ensure the child survived the tragedy. Friends and relatives gathered at Ed Stone Park on Sunday evening to honor Nicole’s memory, sharing stories about her compassion, strength, and the love she gave to those around her.

As the family prepares to say goodbye, Grayson’s legacy remains centered on the lives she protected and the people she cared for. An online fundraiser has been created to assist with funeral expenses and provide support as her children and loved ones face the difficult days ahead. Nicole Grayson will be remembered as a mother whose final act showed the extraordinary depth of her love.