JOHNSTON COUNTY – Fire Chief Nathan Burgess has died following a courageous battle with cancer. Burgess was a volunteer with the 50-210 Fire Department, serving the McGee’s Crossroads area, for the past 24 years. The last 14 years he served as chief.
Chief Burgess was dedicated to the entire community and was often at the fire station.
50-210 Deputy Chief Brian Newborn said Burgess had battled cancer for the last 18 months. Burgess attended a Johnston County fire association meeting Thursday night at the 50-210 fire station. On Friday he went to the hospital. He passed away Sunday evening at Duke Medical Center surrounded by his family and friends.
“Chief Burgess meant everything to the 50-210 Fire Department and the community,” Newborn said. “You couldn’t ask for a better chief. He was always there for us, no matter what we needed, day or night. We are trying to make it through. We love his family so much. We are trying to support them and likewise they are supporting us.”
On Monday, firefighters led a procession from Duke Hospital to Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner.
Burgess was also a captain with the Raleigh Fire Department. His passing is being treated as a line of duty death.
According to the Firefighter Cancer Alliance, cancer is the second leading cause of death for firefighters in the United States, due to exposure to different chemicals and gases that are byproducts of combustion and burning.
Nathan Burgess is survived by his wife, Christy, and their four children.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.
From a past Firefighter of the FDNY. Chief, may you rest in peace. Thank you for your service. You will be surrounded by Angels on your way to see God. For the family, may you have peace and strength thru these times and may God be with you to give you strength. As for my brother Fire Fighters, have strength in knowing your Chief will always be with you and remain strong. Prayers for all.