COVID-19 Claims Longtime Gaston County (NC) EMS Lieutenant

A display in honor of Melanie Massagee.
Photo/Gaston County EMS

On January 9, 2022, Gaston County (NC) EMS suffered a devastating loss of one of their own from COVID-19.

Lt. Melanie Massagee began her service in Gaston County with the Bessemer City Rescue Squad in 1978. She later joined Gaston County EMS as a volunteer auxiliary member. She joined full time in 207 and was currently assigned to B-Shift as a lieutenant.

“Melanie was known for her giving personality, dedication to ensuring no one was left unheard or went without,” the service wrote on Facebook. “Melanie was a friend to all who knew her. Melanie lived a life of service and commitment to her faith, family, friends, and the patients she served.

“Melanie had been battling COVID 19 since just before Christmas. She was most recently on a ventilator suffering from COVID complications just prior to her passing. Her family hopes that this tragedy will help others realize how devastating this virus can be and encourages everyone to take all necessary precautions to help prevent such future tragedies.”

Final arrangements were not available.

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