Firefighters from multiple agencies worked to save the home of Farmersville firefighter Penny Phillips on Dec. 1, but the structure was destroyed. (Courtesy photo)

A Farmersville firefighter is receiving support from colleagues and the community after her home was destroyed in a fire Monday, Dec. 1.

Farmersville Fire Department crews responded to a structure fire call that evening and soon learned the burning home belonged to one of their own. According to the department, the loss struck especially hard because they work alongside the homeowner every day.

The firefighter, Penny Phillips, was not home at the time and was unharmed. The department expressed gratitude for the outpouring of concern and assistance offered by residents and neighboring agencies.

Multiple fire departments provided mutual aid, including crews from Princeton, Lavon, Josephine, Nevada, Blue Ridge and AMR. Celeste Volunteer Fire Department covered the city while Farmersville firefighters worked the scene. Despite their efforts, the house was declared a total loss. Three pets remain missing, and Phillips has said she fears they did not survive the fire. There were no reported injuries.

Phillips, who serves in several roles with the department, has dedicated years to helping others through emergency response, fire investigation and community outreach. Now, firefighters say she is the one in need of support.

A fundraising effort has been launched to help Phillips recover and begin rebuilding. A GoFundMe account has been set up at https://gofund.me/39de61273. Donations are being accepted to assist with immediate needs, and contributions can also be brought directly to the Farmersville Fire Department.

Phillips said gift cards from Amazon, Target or Walmart would be helpful as she works to replace essential items and clothing.

The fire remains under investigation.

From Staff Reports • [email protected]