Community Mourns as Fallen Gaston County Paramedic Returns from Florida

Gastonia, NC (WNN) - On Thursday, November 20, 2025. GEMS workers, along with family and friends, gathered outside First Assembly of God in Gastonia to pay tribute to Gaston County Paramedic Mary Jolly.

Members of the community gathered together outside of the church- Mary Jolly's Processional and Vigil - First Assembly of God of Gastonia - November 20th, 2025

Lauren Ramsey (WNN)

What Happened

Mary Jolly passed away on Monday, November 17th, at 11:05 am, at a Florida hospital, surrounded by family and GEMS Chief Mark Lamphiear. She was severely injured early Saturday morning on Interstate 95 in Brevard County when she stopped to help a driver that had been hit by a car.

Honor Guard and Last Call

Those in attendance were met by a memorial and an Honor Guard, which presented a folded American flag to Jolly's family.

The Honor Guard presenting the folded flag to the family- Mary Jolly's Processional and Vigil - First Assembly of God of Gastonia - November 20th, 2025

Lauren Ramsey (WNN)

Bagpipes were played as the crowd followed behind and walked into the church. The Gaston County Government livestreamed the memorial on Facebook and YouTube to honor Jolly. During the memorial, Gaston County EMS Captain Jeff Hicks spoke, thanking everyone for attending and leading them in a moment of silence and a prayer.

Bagpipes being played as others followed behind- Mary Jolly's Processional and Vigil - First Assembly of God of Gastonia - November 20th, 2025

Lauren Ramsey (WNN)

Jolly's last call came next as a dispatcher called out her number over the radio for the last time. "Your compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication touched countless lives," the dispatcher said. "You served the citizens of Gaston County with courage, pride, and commitment. E-46, you are now clear of duty. We honor your service, your devotion, and your ultimate sacrifice while off duty. Rest in peace, Paramedic Jolly. We will take it from here."

Scholarship Fund

As a sentimental way to keep her memory alive, Jolly's family plans to start The Jolly Good Samaritan Scholarships. The fund will provide collegiate scholarships to new and aspiring paramedic students at Cleveland Community College or paramedic students from Gaston College.

The family is raising money for the scholarship fund. If you would like to make a donation, click here.