As expected with any high-profile wake, the line to pay respects to Orange Fire Marshal Tim Smith was constant.
The Cody White Funeral Home was prepared to welcome mourners, with roped off serpentine lines in two large rooms prior to entering the viewing room. Each had photo memory boards with images of Tim with his daughters, Hannah and Alexa; his girlfriend, Terri; a big fish he caught (later revealed that Terri caught it and handed it over for the photo op) before he let it loose, and other happy times that his family wanted to share.
TV screens also ran slide shows, and the walls were lined with flower arrangements and his turnout gear and a few personal items like the wooden train set he’d made that had graced his office for a time.
Although some people did catch up with old friends, the mood was somber, most friends admitting they were still in shock. Everyone fell silent when they entered the final room. Occasionally the line was interrupted by on-duty first responders who’d come by to pay their respects.
When I came through, Deputy Fire Marshal Jamie Vincent was standing by with Tim’s family, offering a greeting, then introducing visitors to Terri and the two girls they would know with whom they were speaking. Tim’s sister was seated in the front row as well.
ln the rear parking lot, a fire department canteen truck served coffee and water and an ambulance stood by in case it was needed.
Everything was meticulously planned, Tim deserved nothing less.