Community members honor memory of longtime firefighter
SIKESTON, Mo. (KBSI) – Many people gathered Wednesday to remember a man who dedicated his life to service.
Steven ‘Tony’ Smith served his community for over 20 years as a firefighter before passing on July 24, 2024.
On July 30, his fellow firefighters in Scotty county – and the community say goodbye… honoring his memory and his life of service.
A man known for his kind heart and willingness to serve.
Friends of firefighter Tony Smith gathered in Sikeston Tuesday to reflect on his selfless career.
Smith served as Morehouse Fire Chief for 15 years and a member of both Minor and Scott County fire departments for more than 12 years.
He passed away at his home on July 24. He battled cancer and also suffered the lingering effects of a stroke in 2020.
Now, those who knew him best say he is finally at peace.
Jeremy Perrien is the fire chief for the Scott County Rural Fire District. He says he looked up to Smith.
“We became very good friends, very close over the years,” said Chief Perrien. “He was a mentor. He was always there.”
Other colleagues, family and friends stood by for his “last ride” finally laying him to rest.
Perrien shares what he says Smith will be remembered for.
“Tonys biggest thing was to never judge others and to always be there for one another,” he said.
Co-workers say they are leaning on each other now, lifting each other up, something they say Smith was great at and offering support or a helping hand.
Baily Cocharan is the lieutenant for the Scott County Rural Fire Protection District. He shared fond memories of his fellow firefighter and friend.
“Tony was, we were assigned to the same station. He was one of our tanker operators, and I always tended to end up in the truck with him every time we had a call, so we got close,” said Cocharan.
Now his fellow firefighters say, “Your duties are complete. You can stand down. We can take it from here.”
Related story: Scott County Rural Fire Protection District mourns loss of firefighter
