BLADENBORO, NC (WWAY) -- After trying to save others in a fire last weekend, a Bladen County firefighter died. The hero was laid to rest today, and the community came together to remember.
He was always willing to help. That's what friends and family said they will miss most about the John Hall as they came together one last time to honor his life and legacy.
Hall's life was dedicated to service. He was Bladen County's deputy fire marshal, fire chief in Clarkton and a member of the Bladenboro Fire Department. He also worked closely with the Red Cross.
Hall died last week of a heart attack days after falling ill during a fire call.
"We're here honoring a true hero to the citizens of this county," Bladen County Emergency Services Director Bradley Kinlaw said. "Any time anything bad would happen, when the pager would go off, he was there countywide."
During the service, guests were reminded of Hall's dedication to making other lives better. By saving people and protecting property, loved ones said hall's purpose in life was fulfilled, and he died doing what he loved.
"He truly defined a firefighter," Kinlaw said. "He was always willing to drop everything to help others including his own business."
Hall's mother did not want to talk on camera but said she wants the service on-air so that the community hall loved so much could share in his celebration, even if they were not able to attend.
Bladen County lost another firefighter last week. Tuesday, David Tatem, 55, a lieutenant with the White Oak Fire Department, died after complications after responding to a vehicle fire a day earlier. His funeral was Saturday.