22-year-old first responder dies weeks after his wedding. ‘Cannot imagine the pain’
A 22-year-old EMT died weeks after his wedding, rattling first responders in South Carolina.
Chad Andrew “Drew” Kelly Jr. was a “fourth-generation firefighter” known for his love of serving the town of Moncks Corner. But his life was cut short after he was killed in “a tragic off-duty auto accident,” according to the town and an online obituary.
Kelly died May 12, less than two months after he was married. He and his wife were “enjoying their new life together” before his death, a post on the Russell Funeral Chapel website said.
“Please keep the Kelly family and the Town of Moncks Corner Fire Department in your thoughts and prayers over the next several weeks. One cannot imagine the pain and loss both families are feeling,” the Moncks Corner Rural Fire Department wrote in a Facebook post.
Over the years, Kelly had volunteered with that department and also worked as an engineer/EMT with the town of Mocks Corner, officials said.
“Drew’s passion in life was fighting fires and serving his community,” his obituary said.
In addition to being named Firefighter of the Year for Moncks Corner in 2021, he “was known for having a light heart and wonderful sense of humor, and for being loyal, fun-loving, and eager to learn,” the town wrote in a Facebook post.
Kelly also was remembered for being a member of his church and for having a “beloved dog.” After Kelly’s death, several people flocked to social media to share their condolences.
“This loss is particularly painful for many,” the Rural Fire Department said, noting that the news resonated across the Moncks Corner area.
Moncks Corner is in Berkeley County, roughly 30 miles northwest of Charleston.
This story was originally published May 15, 2023 at 11:32 AM with the headline "22-year-old first responder dies weeks after his wedding. ‘Cannot imagine the pain’."
