Annual First Responder Breakfast held Thursday at Edwards Funeral Home

Edwards Funeral Home continued its annual tradition of recognizing local first responders Thursday with a breakfast bringing together members of the agencies that serve the community.

Law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other first responders gathered at the North Queen Street funeral home for breakfast and fellowship.

The event has become an annual tradition for Edwards Funeral Home and owner Justin Smith, offering the business an opportunity to thank those who respond to emergencies throughout Kinston and Lenoir County.

Over the years, the gathering has included representatives from police and sheriff’s departments, fire departments, emergency medical services, detention personnel and emergency communications.

The breakfast also gives first responders from different agencies an opportunity to spend time together outside of the emergencies and incidents that often bring them together professionally.

Kinston Police Department Sergeant Brian Biggins said events such as the breakfast provide an opportunity for first responders to see the community’s support for their work.

“Events like this mean a lot to our first responders. It’s an opportunity for us to come together outside of the normal calls for service and spend time with the people and organizations that support us. Knowing that our community appreciates the work our first responders do every day goes a long way. We’re incredibly thankful to Edwards Funeral Home for continuing this tradition and for taking the time to recognize everyone who serves our community.“

Edwards Funeral Home has held the breakfast annually since 2021. What began as a way to thank local first responders has continued as a yearly gathering centered on appreciation, fellowship and community service.

The funeral home is located at 702 N. Queen St. in Kinston.