Hundreds pay tribute to Hilmi at funeral

Hundreds of people turned out to pay tribute to Corby firefighter Hilmi Say at his funeral today (January 24).

Hilmi was diagnosed with cancer in January 2022 and had bravely been fighting it since. He sadly passed away aged 40 on the morning of December 23, surrounded by his family. In the period since, the Fire Service has been supporting Hilmi’s wife, Victoria, and his children.

Hilmi was finally laid to rest this afternoon with his funeral procession starting at the Corby fire station where he so loyally served for more than a decade.

His coffin was transported by a turntable ladder, and flanked by two fire engines, on a procession route lined with well-wishers through Corby town centre and onto Rothwell. There, firefighters and fire staff helped form a Guard of Honour to welcome Hilmi into Rothwell Holy Trinity Parish Church, where a funeral service paid tribute to his life. Following the funeral, a private burial and wake were held in Corby.

Acting Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill attended the ceremony, and reflecting on an emotional day, said: “Hilmi was an incredibly popular person across the Fire Service, so it was no surprise to see that so many people wanted to come along and pay their respects.

“I know how proud Hilmi was to be a firefighter, and I’m glad that the Fire Service could grant his final wishes by playing such a key role in his funeral.

“Although this was an opportunity to lay him to rest, we know that Hilmi’s death continues to have an impact on everyone who knew him. We will continue to support Victoria and their children, as well as our firefighters and fire staff.”