Fallen North Carolina Firefighter Laid to Rest

Story and photos by Bob Bartosz

Funeral service for Firefighter John Derek Gupton of the Justice (NC) Volunteer Fire Department was held on Sunday Sept 21st   at the Duke Memorial Church in Spring Hope, North Carolina.

More than 500 firefighters and friends from all over North Carolina paid tribute to this Franklin County hero, who lost his life on September 16th while responding when the fire tanker truck he was driving overturned on route to a fire call.

Funeral Arrangements Set for Fallen North Carolina Firefighter

Gupton was only 24 but he gave his time and dedication to help others whenever possible.

Photos from the service below by Bob Bartosz.

Firefighters and friends at the funeral for fallen Justice (NC) Firefighter Derek Gupton.

A mass of firefighters arrayed at the funeral site.

Mourners arrive at the service.

A long line of firefighters and officials attending the service for fallen Justice (NC) Firefighter Derek Gupton.

The casket is brought forward.

The casket of fallen Justice (NC) Firefighter Derek Gupton.

Fire officials salute the fallen firefighter.

The Honor Guard at the funeral for fallen Justice (NC) Firefighter Derek Gupton.

The casket bearing fallen Justice (NC) Firefighter Derek Gupton during the service.

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