Memories, some dim, some vivid, flowed freely Wednesday and Thursday as Columbia firefighters said goodbye to Timmy Young.
A 20-year veteran with the Columbia Fire Department, Young, 41, died last week at a hospital where he was being treated for a heart attack he suffered while responding to an emergency call Jan. 7.
Hundreds of firefighters from across the state attended Thursday afternoons funeral at Shandon Baptist Church.
Columbia Fire Chief Bradley Anderson said it may have been the largest gathering of personnel in the departments history.
In his eulogy, Columbia Fire Chaplain Michael Bingham recalled one moment he had with Young on Feb. 27 of last year, a particularly rough day for the Columbia Fire Department.
A chlorine leak at the citys wastewater treatment plant kept fire crews busy most of the afternoon. At the same time, firefighters were called to a house fire less than four miles away. A 74-year-old woman was trapped inside.
The flames and smoke would be too much for her. She died inside her house.
Bingham recalled checking in with the firefighters to make sure they were OK.
When I got to Timmy, he said, Im good. Bingham said. I didnt believe him, but we talked for a few minutes.
In the days since his heart attack Ive wracked my brain for what it is he said to me, and I cant recall the words, but this I know and this I give to you: When I turned to walk away that night, I felt better.
The minister had been ministered to.
Those who knew Young described him as a jovial fellow who kidded around with his co-workers, but was serious about his work.
That included keeping the fire engine as clean as he kept his car.
The station was clean when Tim was there, said Bill Ernst, a volunteer firefighter who worked with Young at the Capital View fire station. He was out there Armor All-ing the tires on the truck.
That same engine carried his body Thursday through Forest Acres and Columbia to Elmwood Cemetery.
As a paid engineer working at a fire station staffed primarily by volunteers, Young would have to drive the firetruck to emergencies. That often put him first at a fire scene.
Hes a fireman, hes a medic, hes an engineer as far as driving the truck, said fire Capt. Allen Derrick. Hes well rounded in being able to do all that and hold everything together until the cavalry gets there.
There was no doubt Young wanted to be a firefighter, said his son, Travis.
From a young man, that was a goal of his while he was in school.
The last public tribute to Young came about 4:15 p.m. when a dispatcher called out for Youngs station and badge number.
Columbia Central, a voice responded. Be advised that 30-27 has answered his last call. Our brothers gone home.
Although hes gone hell never be forgotten. Please rest in peace, Tim.
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