WALDORF, Md. — Dozens gathered at the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Station on Sunday afternoon to honor the life and legacy of 21-year-old Joscelynne Pannone, a devoted Maryland firefighter and paramedic who died tragically earlier this week in an overnight crash in Pennsylvania.
Pannone lost control of her vehicle in the early hours of May 28 while driving northbound on Interstate 81 in Hanover Township. Pennsylvania State Police reported that wet road conditions contributed to the crash, which ended with her vehicle striking a parked tractor-trailer on the highway shoulder. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Originally from Charles County, Pannone’s commitment to service spanned across multiple communities in Maryland. She first served with the Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Company before joining both the Woodlawn and Waldorf Volunteer Fire Departments. According to Waldorf Fire officials, she became an active member of their department in September 2021.
“During her time at Waldorf, Joscelynne assisted with the fire prevention program at Company 3, in addition to providing emergency services even while continuing her education,” the department said in a statement.
Pannone graduated from North Point High School and obtained her CNA license before attending the College of Southern Maryland, where she earned certification as a paramedic. Most recently, she was enrolled at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), pursuing a degree in Emergency Health Services and Disaster Management.
While studying at UMBC, Pannone served as a Student Marshal with the campus police department. She also worked actively as a paramedic with the Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Company.
“Joscelynne was only 21 years old and had so much more greatness ahead of her,” wrote Woodlawn Fire in a tribute post. “Her radiant smile, infectious positivity, and profound sense of purpose will be deeply missed.”
UMBC Police echoed the sentiment, stating, “Her memory will forever be a part of the fabric of our department and our university community.”
Sunday’s celebration of life service was held at Waldorf Volunteer Fire Station 3 on Old Washington Road, where members of the fire service, friends, family, and community leaders paid tribute to Pannone’s enduring spirit and unwavering dedication to others.
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Thank you for your service to the community. God Bless you. RIP.