Blood drive held in honor of former Patchogue fire chief exceeds expectations

The New York Blood Center and the Patchogue Lioness Club held a blood drive on Thursday in honor of a lifelong Patchogue resident who dedicated his life to his community.

The drive was held in honor of Paul Felice, who served the Patchogue Fire Department as a fire chief and fire commissioner during his more than six decades with the department. He died in April 2023.

His widow Margaret Felice says he was always helping someone else.

"He was always doing something for somebody. Always,” she said.

His daughter Karen Smith remembers him as always giving back.

"He was the ultimate volunteer. He volunteered his whole entire life,” she said. "He was really special, and loved, and admired."

Organizers say they hope his legacy of selflessness and dedication would encourage people to give back. His daughter Cheryl Felice said they saw the community support from the second they opened the doors.

"An overwhelming show of love and affection came out here today and that's what we're seeing,” she said. “We're seeing love and kindness and we are very, very grateful for that."

As a result, organizers say they quickly exceeded their donation quota with dozens of donations.

"I know my husband's very, very happy about it. He always loved things like this, always. He always took part in everything,” said Margaret.

Felice’s family says it shows just how much he meant to the Patchogue community.

Another blood drive will take place next week in Bellport. Learn more about next week’s blood drive here .