Jamie Atkinson Sayville NY Obituary: Devoted EMS Leader and 9/11 First Responder Dies by Cancer
The community of Sayville, New York, and beyond is mourning the loss of Jamie Atkinson, a devoted EMS leader and 9/11 first responder who passed away on June 27, 2025, after a courageous battle with a rare cancer linked to his service at Ground Zero. Jamie’s dedication to his work and his community was unwavering, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched during his career.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Jamie Atkinson’s journey in emergency response began at just 16 years old when he volunteered with the Community Ambulance Company in Sayville. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, becoming captain, assistant chief, and eventually chief of operations. His leadership and vision transformed the emergency medical services in Suffolk County, and his contributions to the field of emergency response are still felt today.
Ground Zero Response and Cancer Diagnosis
At the age of 19, Jamie responded to the 9/11 attacks at Ground Zero, where he worked tirelessly in the hazardous conditions of search and rescue. Years later, he was diagnosed with a rare cancer linked to his exposure to toxic substances at the World Trade Center site. Despite his illness, Jamie continued to serve his community, embodying resilience and dedication until the end.
EMS Legacy and Impact
Jamie’s impact on emergency medical services in Suffolk County is immeasurable. Under his guidance, Sayville became the first Long Island community to implement a town-wide public-access AED program, dramatically improving cardiac arrest survival rates. He also introduced the region’s first nasal Narcan protocol to combat the opioid crisis and established Suffolk County’s first EMS controlled-substance program.
Law Enforcement Career
In addition to his work in EMS, Jamie had a distinguished career in law enforcement, graduating from the NYPD Police Academy and earning Connecticut State Police certification. As a Detective with the MTA Police Department, he investigated over 100 death cases and high-profile crimes, earning accolades such as MTA Police Officer of the Year and Investigator of the Year from the International Financial Crime Investigators Association.
Community Reaction and Tributes
The news of Jamie’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from the community. Friends, family, and colleagues have shared stories of his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his work. A funeral visitation was held on July 1, 2025, at Raynor & D’Andrea Funeral Home in West Sayville, and a Funeral Mass followed on July 2, 2025, at St. Lawrence Roman Catholic Church.
Legacy and Remembrance
Jamie Atkinson’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched during his career. His dedication to his work, his community, and his colleagues will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, reflecting Jamie’s commitment to giving back and supporting important causes.
Conclusion
The passing of Jamie Atkinson is a tragic loss for the community of Sayville and the emergency response community. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his contributions to the field of emergency response will continue to inspire others. As the community mourns his loss, it also celebrates his life and legacy, and the impact he had on those around him.
