Berkeley County, South Carolina — Fire stations from across the Lowcountry came to remember Jimmy Townsend, a deputy fire chief from Moncks Corner who died of a cardiac incident five hours after responding to a call.
Many people attended the memorial service, remembering Townsend as a dedicated and selfless individual. “You’ll be missed, brother. Robert Jeffcoat, chairman of Moncks Corner Rural, described the man as humble and selfless.
Joshua Fullbright, South Carolina State Fire Marshal Chief of Community Risk Reduction, stated, “It is unknown how many lives he saved not only during his lifetime but also in the years to come.” Townsend’s influence was felt strongly inside the Moncks Corner Fire Department, where he worked for nearly 40 years.
Bud Thames, former president of the SC International Association of Arson Investigators, stated, “Jimmy’s influence was woven into every part of our organisation.”
Assistant Chief Colt Roy of Central Berkeley Fire and EMS expressed his thoughts on the death, adding, “It’s not easy, and there’s nothing easy about losing one of our own.” But it’s even more tough when it happens unexpectedly.”
In honour of Townsend, who had an impact beyond Moncks Corner and Berkeley County, the governor ordered flags to be flown at half-staff.
Nathan Ellis of the South Carolina Fire Marshals Office commented, “The influence he’s made here in Moncks Corner, Berkeley County, and throughout our state. “It will last forever.” Townsend was regarded as a community pillar, with Roy noting that “the colour of his helmet changed over the years, as did his title.” However, at the end of the day, he was a worker bee. “He was one of us.”
As the funeral closed, Roy emphasised the significance of carrying on Townsend’s legacy:
We get back on the trucks, and we respond to calls. That’s what Jimmy would want us to do. That’s what Jimmy would’ve done. That’s what Jimmy did. And keep him close to our heart and, never forget the things he taught us.
