The Columbia-Richland Fire Department is saddened to announce the sudden passing of Battalion Chief Joseph Casey Desso, who died during the night of September 13, 2021 following a brief illness.
Battalion Chief Desso bravely served the citizens of the City of Columbia and Richland County for 24 years. From the beginning of his career as a volunteer firefighter in 1992 he rose through the ranks of CRFD and was promoted to the rank of battalion chief in 2017.
Throughout his career Chief Desso worked to shape firefighters and future leaders of CRFD. As a fire captain in 2016 he was recognized along with the members of his crew for their work rescuing a person that was entrapped in a burning structure.
Chief Desso’s dedication and service to our community will never be forgotten.
A public viewing will be held for Chief Desso on Monday September 20, 2021 beginning at 11 a.m. at
Riverland Hills Baptist Church – 201 Lake Murray Boulevard – Irmo, South Carolina
A funeral service will follow at the church beginning at 1 p.m. Internment will take place after the service at
Woodridge Memorial Park & Funeral Home – 138 Corley Mill Road –Lexington
Our department continues to have resources in place for all members who may need support during this time of great loss. We thank the community for their outreach and sympathies to Chief Desso’s friends, family, colleagues and all who are in mourning.
