05/24/2026
The members of the Waynesboro First Aid Crew mourn the loss of a cherished member of our family. It is with deep regret and profound soundness to announce the loss of James Halbert “Jim” Duff, Sr., WFAC Life Member on Saturday, May 16, 2026, whose life was defined by service, dedication, and compassion. 💔
Jim devoted himself to helping others, both professionally and as a volunteer. After a successful career at DuPont in Waynesboro, he continued his commitment to care by serving as an Advanced Life Support provider with Augusta Health Transportation Services. Yet it was through his volunteer service with Waynesboro First Aid Crew, beginning in November 1973, that Jim made an especially lasting mark on our organization and community.
Over the years, Jim answered countless calls, often balancing volunteer duty with full-time work and family life. He advanced his emergency medical training from first aid and CPR to EMT, EMT-Shock Trauma Technician, and EMT-Intermediate—demonstrating both his drive for excellence and his deep sense of responsibility to those in need.
Jim’s contributions extended far beyond patient care. He served WFAC in leadership roles including President and Treasurer, worked on multiple committees, and represented the organization in competition, helping earn first-place honors at the Virginia Association of Rescue Squads annual convention. His many years of faithful service earned him life membership, but his true legacy lies in the respect, admiration, and gratitude of all who served beside him.
To many, Jim was more than a provider, he was a mentor, a leader, and a friend. He encouraged younger members, set a steady example, and treated others with kindness and humility. His influence reached far beyond our station walls and touched the broader EMS and public safety community throughout Waynesboro and beyond.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to others, his quiet strength, and the generous spirit with which he served. We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife Betty, his children, and all who loved him.
There is no greater purpose than service to others. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Your legacy will endure in the lives you touched, and in the example, you set for all who follow. With heavy hearts, your friends and WFAC family say, “We will take it from here, Brother. Rest in peace.” 🚑❤️💙
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Waynesboro First Aid Crew, 201 West Broad Street, Waynesboro, VA. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 301 Sheppard Court, Waynesboro, VA.
Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive in Staunton is in charge of his arrangements. A full obituary is available at https://www.coffmanfuneralhome.net/obituaries/james-duff-sr