HUDSON – Paul Douglas McCagg, a longtime volunteer fireman and lifelong resident of Columbia County, died September 7, 2022, at the FASNY Firemen's Home in Hudson.

Paul was born December 27, 1957, the son of the late Harvey and Pauline (Polly) McCagg of Chatham.

He was a graduate of Chatham Central High School and resided in the village until illness required his admission to the Firemen's Home, where he received outstanding care and compassion during the past year and a half.

Paul worked at various businesses in the community before being employed by the Taconic Hills School District as a bus driver, which he served for twenty years until his retirement. He truly enjoyed interacting with his students and co-workers.

A devoted volunteer in his community, Paul served some 45- years as a member and past president of the Sanford W. Smith Hook and Ladder Co. of the Chatham Fire Department and was named Fireman of the Year in 2005. He also was a life member of the Chatham Rescue Squad, providing emergency care to countless patients over the year.

Paul was a member of the Kinderhook Elks Lodge and several firematic fraternal organizations, including the Royal Order of Blue Vests and the Night Hawks, having served as president of both groups, as well as serving as a delegate to FASNY and past director of the Hudson-Mohawk Firefighters Association..

Paul is survived by three siblings, Barbara Freidel of Castleton, Ralph (Nancy) McCagg of Valatie and Harvey McCagg of Stottville. Also surviving are nephews Michael (Alicia) McCagg of Greenport and Heath (Rebecca) Freidel of East Greenbush, nieces Amy and Melissa McCagg of Boston and several great nephews and nieces.

Calling hours will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday, September 12th at the French, Gifford, Preiter and Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Ave., Chatham. Services will be from the funeral home the following day at 11 a.m. with internment to follow at the Chatham Rural Cemetery,

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Firemen's Home or the Chatham Fire Department in Paul's memory. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.