18-year-old firefighter who died responding to Hurricane Helene had just graduated high school

SALUDA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News) - A firefighter in South Carolina who lost his life while responding to Hurricane Helene was just 18 years old and had recently graduated from high school, according to officials.

Landon Cale Bodie was a volunteer with the Circle Fire Department. He died Friday morning alongside Chief of the Circle Fire Department Chad Satcher when a tree fell on top of their truck near Batesburg-Leesville.

“His commitment to helping those in need and protecting his community was a testament to his selflessness and bravery,” his obituary read.

The Circle Fire Department was responding to one of the numerous calls for service during Hurricane Helene.

Bodie’s obituary said had just graduated this year from Blythewood High School. He was also an active member of Future Farmers of America and had a love for agriculture.

“Landon will be remembered for his warm smile, his generous spirit, and his unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community,” his obituary reads. “His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”

He loved helping his grandfather, Wayne Bodie, with his carpentry skills “creating memories that will be cherished forever.”

“Landon had a deep connection with the outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing in his spare time,” his obituary read.

Bodie leaves behind a large, caring family including his mother, stepfather, three siblings, grandparents and great-grandparents.

A funeral service for Bodie will be held Sunday, Oct. 6 at Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center at 4 p.m.

An interment will follow at the Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery.

The funeral home says those looking to make memorials can make them to the SC Firefighters Foundation.

The Saluda County Sheriff’s Office said Lexington County will be assisting the Circle Volunteer Fire Department as they operate without a chief.

The firefighters are two of the 39 deaths in South Carolina associated with Helene as of Oct. 1, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.

Hurricane Helene has been characterized as one of the deadliest storms in recent U.S. history, having caused flooding, downed trees, closures and damage across the southeastern United States. The storm decimated cellular service and power for millions and has left over 170 people dead as of Oct. 2.

Copyright 2024 WIS via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.