The Smithtown Fire Department honored Firefighter/Paramedic James Shellock, 22, with firematic services and a procession through Smithtown. Shellock passed away as the result of a motor vehicle accident on August 13, 2020.
He was a former member of both the Hauppauge Fire Department and Central Islip/Hauppauge Ambulance and loved everything about the fire and EMS services. As one of the department’s top responders, James constantly worked to improve himself and the department by training and encouraging others to become better. He recently worked with the company officers to repack a bed of hose so that it can be more quickly deployed. The department is renaming this hose load “The Shellock Load” and will integrate it into its training program.
Gathered together at the service were his family and friends to pay their final tribute. A funeral mass was held at St Patrick’s Church followed by a procession past the family home, Engine Company 4’s station on Plaisted Avenue and the Main Firehouse on Elm Avenue. At the Main House an arch was raised and James was brought past the firehouse for a final time. The chiefs, officers and members would like to extend their appreciation to the Smithtown community for their patience and understanding over the last few days as we laid our brother James to rest.
James leaves behind his mother, two sisters, a large extended family and many brother firefighters who will keep his legacy alive.
– Fire News photos by Fred Friedman and Dennis Whittam
