Rochester firefighter Elvis Reyes laid to rest Wednesday

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Rochester firefighter Elvis Reyes was laid to rest Wednesday.

He died last week following surgery for an on-duty-related injury. Hundreds turned out at his funeral to pay their last respects at the Blue Cross Arena.

News10NBC watched the service which was live streamed.

“Elvis Reyes, a man of faith, rooted in faith, and propelled by faith,” said Father Bob Werth during the funeral.

READ MORE: Loved ones spoke at funeral for 20-year RFD firefighter Elvis Reyes

The procession down Exchange Boulevard from the Public Safety Building to Blue Cross Arena lasted only a few minutes. Hundreds of firefighters lined the sidewalk as they waited for the hearse carrying Reyes to arrive at the front door.

They came to pay their last respects to Reyes, a 20-year veteran of the department. Once inside the arena family and friends came up one by one to share their memories of Reyes.

“My dad had a lot of pride for his job which obviously rubbed off on Reid and I because you can see the uniform we’re wearing,” said Remington Reyes. “Very proud and prideful to be a fireman just like him.”

Proud of his Puerto Rican heritage, Reyes was a hero to other family members.

“While we all wish that we can spend much, much more time with Elvis it is important that we always remember Elvis’s love, passion for family, and community, and to never ever let his memory die,” said Cousin Tony Ortega. “I love you Elvis.”

To his fellow firefighters, Reyes was best known for being dedicated to the department and the community he served. He uplifted those around him.

“I never remember a time he didn’t have a smile on his face,” said Lieutenant Joe Hogan. “Elvis seemed to be 10 feet tall with a heart to match his height. The world will truly never be the same.”

The ceremony culminated with the Firefighter’s Last Alarm. Reyes is survived by his sons, brothers, and parents. He was laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.