ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — With profound sorrow, the St. Charles County community mourns the loss of Lt. Sarah McCarthy, a dedicated public servant and beloved colleague who passed away following a medical emergency while in the line of duty. Her sudden loss has left a deep void in the hearts of those she served alongside, the families she helped, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 23 years of remarkable service.
Sarah began her career with the St. Charles County Ambulance District in 2002, answering a calling rooted in compassion, courage, and selflessness. In 2016, she was promoted to lieutenant, a role in which she became not only a leader, but a mentor and role model to so many in emergency medical services. Her presence was steady, her voice reassuring, and her heart unwaveringly centered on caring for others.
Beyond her day-to-day role, Sarah was a proud member of the district’s Honor Guard and a cherished part of the STARS team, which works closely with special needs pediatric patients and their families. This work was especially close to her heart. She didn’t just respond to emergencies — she built relationships, comforted families, and brought light to some of the most challenging moments in people’s lives.
On November 21, while on duty at Station 12 in St. Peters, Sarah experienced chest pain and was rushed to the hospital by her coworkers. She underwent emergency surgery, and despite a brave fight and tireless efforts by medical teams, she suffered a grave setback on December 4 and was transferred to a St. Louis hospital. Surrounded by those who loved her, Sarah passed away with her family by her side.
Even in her final moments, Sarah gave one last, extraordinary gift to the world — she donated her organs, offering the chance of life and healing to others. It was a final act that perfectly reflected the way she lived: serving others with generosity, courage, and love.
Chief Skip Stephens beautifully captured the impact she had, saying, “To briefly encapsulate Sarah’s contributions to the District and our community is impossible – she was a fierce advocate willing to undertake any action necessary for an individual in need. Her dedication to patients – particularly our STARS families – was unwavering, and an example that we can all hope to strive for.”
Following the announcement of her passing, messages of grief, gratitude, and remembrance poured in from colleagues and community members who had worked beside her, learned from her, and been helped by her. Their words reflected what so many knew to be true — Sarah was more than a coworker. She was family.
Funeral arrangements are currently pending, and the district has pledged to work closely with the McCarthy family to provide support and comfort in this unimaginably difficult time.
Lt. Sarah McCarthy will be remembered not only for the uniform she wore, but for the heart she carried within it. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, every patient she helped, and every emergency responder she inspired.
Rest in peace, Sarah.
Your service, your spirit, and your love will never be forgotten.
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