Community Corner
Bethpage Street Signs Renamed In Honor Of Firefighter William Tolley
The local resident died in the line of duty in April.
BETHPAGE, NY – A street in Bethpage was recently renamed in honor of fallen FDNY Firefighter William Tolley, who died in the line of duty in April.
Town of Oyster Bay officials held a ceremonial street dedication ceremony in honor of the Bethpage resident on Saturday morning.
The ceremony unveiled the new signs that read “F.D.N.Y. Firefighter William N. Tolley Way” at the intersections of Crestline Avenue and Acme Avenue, as well as Crestline Avenue and Stewart Avenue near Tolley's home.
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Another sign will also be permanently displayed at the intersection of Stewart Avenue and Crestline Avenue.
Tolley's widow, Marie Tolley, along with their daughter Isabella were both in attendance during the event.
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“Seeing my husband’s name displayed here will bring us so much joy knowing that his community will never forget him,” she said, according to Newsday.
Tolley grew up in Bethpage before eventually purchasing his house in his hometown with his wife.
He served as an FDNY firefighter with Ladder Company 135 and was a 14-year veteran of the department.
He also served as a volunteer firefighter with the Hicksville Fire Department, having served during 9/11, and most recently with the Bethpage Fire Department.
During his tenure with the FDNY, Firefighter Tolley quickly earned the respect of his colleagues for his dedication and care for his brothers and sisters in the fire service.
“Firefighter Tolley was loved and respected by his family, our residents and his brothers and sisters of the fire service,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “William is a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving and protecting his fellow citizens. This street, in the community where he resided, will serve as a reminder to all residents of his service and sacrifice for his fellow citizens.”
On April 20, Tolley was working on the roof of a burning building in Ridgewood, Queens, along with other members of Ladder 135 when he fell to his death.
Photo courtesy of the Town of Oyster Bay
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