TULSA, Okla. — Hundreds of people gathered inside a Tulsa church Friday morning to honor the life of a Tulsa firefighter.

Captain Josh Rutledge died unexpectedly last week. A GoFundMe has been created to help his family.

Captain Rutledge’s friends and family were joined by his fellow firefighters, Tulsa police officers, and neighboring agencies.

His casket, which was wrapped in an American flag, was brought to the church on the back of Engine 13. Rutledge served on this particular unit.

So many people attended the service that it was standing room only. Tulsa Fire Union President Matt Lay spoke about Rutledge’s commitment to our community.

“There’s really no words to describe Captain Rutledge, what he meant to this job, what he meant to his fellow firefighters, this community, there was no better fireman, but there also was just no better human being,” said Lay.

A peer support counselor is available for anyone struggling with Rutledge’s passing.

“We will never forget his legacy.”

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