A firefighter with nearly 60 years of experience has died in the line of duty.
A firefighter with the Taylor County Fire Department, Charlie W. Shaw, 78, died on Sunday at his residence five days after being involved in a vehicle accident while responding to a call.
“An autopsy revealed that he died from a pulmonary embolism that resulted from a clot caused by injuries sustained in the crash,” according to the website, Supporting Heroes.
Shaw served over 59 years as a firefighter, as he became a volunteer firefighter in 1965 and a full-time, career firefighter in 1970.
He served many years as the Campbellsville-Taylor County Rescue Chief and retired from that position. He also served many years as an Area Coordinator for Kentucky’s State Fire Rescue Training until his retirement in 2013.
Respectfully referred to by his fellow firefighters as “Senior Chief,” he continued to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter until his death.
His obituary at Parrott & Ramsey Funeral Home states: “He was instrumental in creating various programs within the Fire Service, both in the State of Kentucky and throughout the nation. He taught and served many years at the National Fire Academy. Charles found great joy in serving various civic duties as well: the City Council, 4th of July Committee and Toys for Tots. He gave so much of his time and heart to the absolute success of these projects.”
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
