RICHMOND, Va. -- Throughout his more than 30-year career as a firefighter, Bobby Duffus' mission was to save lives.
It was a mission he was able to continue after his untimely passing.
When the Richmond Fire Battalion Chief died on Sept. 21 following a medical emergency, he gave the gift of life to others by donating his organs to those in need.
His family and fellow firefighters lined the halls of Chippenham Hospital in Richmond on Monday to honor Duffus and his life-saving donation.
"A heartbreaking moment for many of us," a Richmond Fire spokesperson wrote on social media. "Dozens of people came to see and salute Chief Duffus for the last time as we know him. His family joined doctors and nurses in moving his stretcher to an OR to begin his next chapter of saving lives."
A heartbreaking moment for many of us as we continue to honor BC Bobby Duffus. Today, dozens of people came to see & salute Chief Duffus for the last time as we know him. His family joined doctors/nurses in moving his stretcher to an OR to begin his next chapter of saving lives. pic.twitter.com/8Erz2Yb6af
— Richmond Fire Department (@RFDVA) September 21, 2021
Earlier in the day, Chief Duffus’ loved ones and representatives with LifeNet Health raised a “Donate Life” flag outside the hospital in his honor. The flag will fly at the hospital's main enterance for the next week.
Richmond Fire Chief Melvin Carter called Duffus "a true Richmond Fire Department soldier, an unwavering friend, and a solid teammate and leader."
More than 4.7 million Virginians — approximately 55 percent of the Commonwealth’s -- are registered as organ, eye, and tissue donors, according to LifeNet Health. Click here to register.
Chief Duffus' cause of death was not disclosed and the Duffus family has asked for privacy as they mourn.
