Those who knew Christa Burchett say she touched the lives of everyone around her, and Saturday night hundreds paid their respects, including her co-workers.

EMS workers and firefighters from two different counties volunteered to cover shifts at the Paintsville Fire Department so its employees could attend her visitation.

It was a somber day as emergency crews remembered one of their own. But thanks to dozens of volunteers, the day was made just a little bit easier for some of those close to Christa Burchett.

“It kinda gives them the piece of mind that they don't have to worry about this, they can concentrate on the family down there,” says Kenny Lyons, Johnson Co. Rescue Chief.

Boyd County EMS workers and local Johnson county firefighters filled in for those at the Paintsville Fire Department, but most workers say they didn't think twice about offering their time.

“Any time anything like this happens, in the fire or EMS community, it's the only thing to do is be here for one another,” says Duane Rucker, Boyd County EMT.

“Anything we can do to help, we're glad to do it and anybody else in the community would do the same,” says Shannon Smith, Thelma Fire Chief.

For those who put their life on the line every day, Burchett's death hits close to home.

“You don't expect it to hit your own people. You see it day in and day out, but it's just a whole different situation when it's your own,” says Greg Denton, Boyd Co. Paramedic.

Many emergency responders say they are able to make it through these hard times thanks the close knit community.

“When something tragic happens to you, we all pull together, everybody lets bygones be bygones. We're all buddies, we're all brothers. It's just one big family here in the county,” says Bill Robinson, West Van Lear Fire Chief.

Those who worked with Burchett, remember her lively spirit and passion for the job.

“Always had a smile on her face. She never knew a stranger. No matter what time it was, or when it was, she always had a smile on her face. She will deeply be missed,” says Robinson.

Christa Burchett's last call was January 22nd.