IN LOVING MEMORY
of
"310"
Junior Godsey
Paramedic, Volunteer and Mentor

On January 8, 1998 the world lost Junior Godsey. A terrible flood raged through Carter County that night and when the call went out for help, Junior answered. To a man like Junior, there was no choice ... he had to go. Swept away while rescuing others, he gave his life in the line of duty. We all know that if Junior were given the choice to go back and consider answering that call again, his reply would be the same. Some might say "Why would you do such a thing for strangers?" It is the only choice for a man of honor. This world aches for such men.
Junior's call sign ( 310 ) was retired at the Sullivan County E.M.S. and will stand emblazoned on the helmets as well as the hearts and minds of those who knew him.

Heaven Opened

Heaven opened up her eyes, crying tears of rain -
Destruction-flooded morning, wasting lives with pain.
A rescuer stood amongst the throng, gathered on that day,
holding no prior knowledge of the price he'd have to pay.

The torrential waters swept him from a hand that held him near
while peers bowed heads in prayer, hoping just to hear....
That he'd found a bridge over troubled waters,
A shelter from the storm, tender loving kindness,
and a place he could be warm.

He met a caring father who embraced him with His love
and carried him with angels to stand with Him Above.
No braver soul has ever passed this side of Heaven's gate;
He trod harm's path for others, thus death became his fate.

What an example Junior set as father, spouse and friend.
It seems such a travesty his life is at an end.

But God has plans for all of us, it's hard to understand.
What good could ever come of this-- Losing such a man?
Heaven opened up her arms and welcomed home a son;
The Father smiling fondly; "Thanks for a job well done".

Today around the river Styx, a host of cherubs thrive,
And Junior's right there with them, teaching them to dive.

Donya Davis
11 January 1998

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