KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — UPDATE: The Hamblen County Sheriff's Office announced Lt. Eddie Hefner's mother, Pam McElhaney, died Thursday due to injuries she received after a fire destroyed his home.
Pamela "Pam" June McElhaney was 70 years old, according to her obituary. She was an Elvis fan who loved watching the Andy Griffith Show. She leaves behind her son, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family will receive from 5 p.m. through 7 p.m. on Sunday at Westside Chapel Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. Family and friends will then meet at 10 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home for a procession, before a burial at Central Point Baptist Church Cemetery in Rutledge.
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The Hamblen County Sheriff's Office said a lieutenant's mother was hurt and his house was destroyed after a fire on Sunday.
According to a GoFundMe posted by HCSO, Lt. Eddie Hefner was not at home during the fire, but his mother was.
Deputies arrived at the house and kicked in the front door, but could not enter due to the smoke and heat. The West Hamblen Volunteer Fire Department arrived, entered the house and rescued Hefner's mom. She was flown to a burn center in Nashville, the GoFundMe said.
Hefner's mother is breathing on her own now after also suffering from severe smoke inhalation. His home is a total loss, according to HCSO.
"As a member of the HCSO, but more importantly as our brother, we want to do what we can to help Lt. Hefner and one way is by reaching out to the community he has loyally served for over 25 years," HCSO said.
If you would like to donate to Hefner, you can donate here.