10/14/2025
From the Chief:
It is with profound sadness and grief that we inform our community of the death of charter member Ed Walls Jr. Ed was a foundational and instrumental force that began Philipsburg Emergency Medical Services, the first ALS Ambulance Service in Centre County. Ed along with several other instrumental charter members saw a need to deliver advanced emergency medical care to Philipsburg and surrounding communities. Realizing the importance of rural healthcare, Ed was pivotal in establishing an esteemed and professional organization that became a solid base of emergency medical services to the entire Moshannon Valley. Eddie served as a paramedic with skill, compassion, and intellect beyond what can be written here. After completion of his EMS career, he returned to his family's business, Shamrock Cleaners, which ironically is just a few short steps from the building that he helped to establish. Eddie never stopped being a member or friend of Moshannon Valley EMS. He would regularly stop and talk to the crews as they made their way up Front Street to get lunch or dinner and shared stories of long ago and valuable insight into our ambulance service. As a mentor in his "younger days" he was able to skillfully and intellectually challenge new providers to guide them to become great providers. Eddie's humbleness and kindness to Moshannon Valley EMS and to the community goes unmatched. Ed served as pianist and organist at Grace United Methodist Church, Philipsburg and his impact at the church was valuable. His love for family, friends, former colleagues, animals and life is an example and inspiration for all of us to achieve. As I visited with Ed the day before his passing, he reminded me of the greatest physician on the Earth, Jesus Christ, that would heal all things and provide a victory over death. I am humbled by his passing and saddened at our loss. Our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to Tammy, his wife and the entire family along with friends that will mourn his earthly absence. The picture we share with Ed is one that defines his love for nature's beauty and bounty along his love for spending quiet peaceful moments while enjoying a relaxing hobby.
With great sadness,
Fred
