BECKLEY — A fallen hero killed in the line of duty was laid to rest Sunday.
Fred Burroughs was a volunteer firefighter and building code inspector was killed in the Ghent explosion. He received a fireman’s funeral with full honors, including a helicopter flyover and color guard.
A fire truck carried Burroughs’ casket through Raleigh County, where people lined the streets to pay their respects. Some even made signs saying good-bye to the firefighter. The procession made its way past the Ghent Volunteer Fire Department, where Burroughs responded for his last call. Fire and emergency crews from across the area stood at attention there with their fire trucks’ lights flashing in the background – a final tribute to their friend and co-worker. The procession ended at Calfee Cemetery for graveside services.
After the funeral, family, friends and people in the community were invited to gather at the Ghent Volunteer Fire Department. Members of the community and area churches donated food, drinks and deserts for the dinner. Organizers said it was an opportunity for everyone to come together after an emotional day. The fire department will host another dinner for the community Monday night following services for Craig Dorsey.
Sunday also was an emotional day for family and friends as Jeffrey Lee Treadway. Funeral services were held today for the youngest victim of the Ghent Explosion. Loved ones gathered and shared memories to honor the 21-year-old. Treadway worked for Thompson Gas and was working on the propane tanks when the explosion occurred.
Friends and family said he was known in the community for his unique, energetic personality, a one-of-a-kind smile and his passion for baseball.
Treadway’s final resting place is at the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.
The Family Worship Center in Beckley was where friends, family and co-workers gathered today to remember Craig Dorsey. Dorsey was an EMT and firefighter for Ghent Area Volunteer Fire Department. Friends and family said he loved to help others. He also was a member of the Beaver and Coal City volunteer fire departments. Services with full EMS and firefighter honors will begin at 1 p.m. Monday at the Family Worship Center in Beckley. Graveside services with Masonic honors will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Prosperity.
Visitation for 44-year-old Glenn R. Bennett of Beckley also was Sunday.
People gathered at Blue Ridge Funeral Home in Beckley Sunday evening to honor Bennett. He worked for Thompson Gas and was on scene at Little General at the time of the explosion. Services at Blue Ridge Funeral Home are scheduled to start at 1 p.m. Monday.
Photo courtesy of Register-Herald Photographer / W. Dayton Whittle