Our condolences to the Newsome family and the Chesterfield Fire and EMS Department of Virginia. Captain Joseph Newsome, 40, an 18 year veteran of the Chesterfield Fire and EMS Department, died Monday April 23, 2007. Joseph was performing required fitness training when he suffered a heart attack and collapsed on a treadmill. He was transported to a local hospital where he died shortly after.

     Joseph started his firefighting career in 1982 with the Namozine Volunteer Fire Department. He was hired as a career firefighter in 1984 for the City of Petersburg, attaining the rank of Sergeant/Engineer. Joseph joined the Chesterfield Fire and EMS Department in 1988. He became a Paramedic in 1992 and was promoted to Lieutenant in 1993. He was also a member of the Technical Rescue Team and was promoted to Captain in 1999. He served in the EMS Division since 2005 and was appointed as an Acting Battalion Chief/Director for the division in April 2007. Joseph was recognized as the Firefighter of the Year for 1992 and throughout his career, he received four EMS Unit Citation Awards and two EMS Awards. He also received the department’s Medal of Valor in 2004 for his actions during Tropical Storm Gaston.

     Our brother Joseph leaves behind his wife Laurie, and his two sons Robert and Thomas. A visitation will be held for Joseph on Wednesday April 25, 2007 4-6PM at the Huguenot Chapel of Woody Funeral Home in Midlothian. A memorial service will be held for Joseph on Thursday April 26, 2007 4PM at Crestwood Presbyterian Church West Campus in Midlothian. In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to:

Joe Newsome Memorial Fund Attn: CARES P.O. Box 40 Chesterfield, VA 23832