In Memory of James Shellock

“There is an endearing tenderness in the love of a mother to a son that transcends all other affections of the heart.” – Washington Irving

On the 12th of August 2020, the world lost a truly special soul. James Shellock was a phenomenal 22-year-old young man with a passion for life and service that was unmatched. He had dreams of becoming a first responder and one day joining the New York City Fire Department. At the young age of 14, he began working toward this goal by joining the Hauppauge Fire Department explorers program. He worked incredibly hard as a volunteer firefighter throughout his time in the explorer’s program, and this work ethic would eventually earn him his EMT certification shortly after he graduated high school. He continued this selfless journey and joined the Smithtown Fire Department during the past year to volunteer for both Fire and EMT calls. He had just recently completed courses at St. John’s University to become a paramedic. His passion for helping others in need was evident from a very young age. His motivation to serve his community was relentless, and he never stopped pushing himself to learn and work hard toward his dreams of serving as a New York City Firefighter. Our communities benefitted greatly from the service that his young life offered. He exemplified the spirit of a selfless and caring hero, and this spirit will continue to live on in the communities he served.

James is survived by his two younger sisters, and his beloved mother Joanne Shellock. James was Joanne’s oldest child and only son. She is a hardworking single mother who has devoted her life to loving and providing for her three children.  She took immense pride in her sons’ aspirational goals of being a first responder, especially at a time in the world where first responders are so needed and valued. We have created this Go Fund Me page to support Joanne and her daughters through this incredibly heartbreaking and difficult time. The current pandemic has presented incredible challenges for everyone, but to simultaneously suffer through the grief of losing your oldest child who had a wealth of potential to offer is simply unimaginable. Please, if you are able to, offer your compassion and support to this family in need. Any contribution would be much appreciated and can help Joanne as she plans his funeral and continues to support her family as they move on from this tragic loss. A mother’s love for her child is never ending, so please help honor his memory by supporting his family who loved him more than anything in the world. May his soul and spirit rest in peace.