Area first responders are mourning the loss of two pillars of their community this week.
The South Jacksonville Fire Department announced the passing of retired South Jacksonville Fire Chief David Hickox. Hickox was a firefighter, paramedic and mentor in the South Jacksonville community with over 30 years of service. Hickox retired as Fire Chief in 2019, after 22 years in the position. Hickox was a part of the building of the new Fire and Police Department on Sequoia Drive in 2004, and helped to establish the South Jacksonville Ambulance service in 2008.
On Tuesday, several area fire departments and EMS groups announced the passing of long-time Winchester EMS volunteer Lynette Schafer. Schafer was an active member of the Winchester EMS for 31 years. She taught multiple fire, police and other agencies CPR.
Funeral services for Schafer will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 12th with a visitation held Monday, April 11th from 4-7PM at Daws Family Funeral Home in Winchester.
Services for Hickox are pending and have not yet been announced.
South Jacksonville Fire Officials are sharing their condolences with the Hickox and Schafer families, and ask the community to their families and friends in their prayers at this time.
Jeremy Coumbes assisted with this report.