Joyce Craig-Lewis - Firefighter - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Joyce Craig-Lewis

Firefighter Joyce Craig-Lewis, age 36, died in the line of duty on December 9, 2014, at a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Joyce was a member of the Philadelphia Fire Department. She had 11 years of service.

Firefighter Craig-Lewis was one of a number of firefighters who responded just before 3:00 a.m. to a residential fire in the West Oak Lane district of Philadelphia. An elderly woman was inside the home and was rescued.

A group of firefighters advanced into the basement of the rowhouse and were then told to withdraw when the fire escalated. Somehow, during this time, Joyce became trapped and issued a mayday call. Comrades were able to extricate her and to perform lifesaving procedures.  She was rushed to a local medical center. Tragically, Joyce was pronounced deceased at approximately 4:00 a.m.

An investigation is being undertaken.

Joyce is the city's first female firefighter to perish in the line of duty. 

Florian, Patron Saint of
Firefighters, pray for Joyce
and for those who have
lost her

The Philadelphia Fire Department is in mourning over the death of their sister. Joyce is described as a hard-working and dedicated firefighter. She had a feisty personality and a sense of humor. She will be forever remembered.

Joyce's loved ones are devastated over her sudden and tragic death. She will be forever mourned.

Joyce is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including her son and daughter. 

Thank you for your service to the community, Joyce. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Pray for all who die by misadventure. They are with us one moment and are gone before we can say goodbye.

Pray that Joyce is in heaven. Pray that she is at peace and is with God. Amen.