09/08/2026
***MEET YOUR MEMBER MONDAY***
Some people become firefighters. Others become part of the very fabric of the community they serve.
Carey Parks is one of those people.
Carey joined the HLVFC in 2001. She attended the fire academy, became a certified firefighter, and quickly began building a career defined by courage, commitment, and an unwavering desire to help others. Her dedication and leadership eventually led her to the position of Fire Chief in 2011, a role she proudly held for three years.
But Carey’s service didn’t stop at the firehouse.
For many years, Carey also served as an EMT and an active member of the Hampton Lakes Emergency Squad. Being a member of both organizations meant that when someone in our community was having one of the worst days of their life, there was a very good chance they would see a familiar face — Carey.
And sometimes, that familiar face is exactly what someone needs.
In the middle of fear, uncertainty, and chaos, Carey had a way of bringing a sense of calm. She showed up when people needed help, comfort, and reassurance. She didn't just respond to emergencies — she responded to people.
Carey continued to build upon her experiences as a firefighter and EMT by becoming a Registered Nurse, a career she continues today. Whether wearing a firefighter’s uniform or scrubs, the mission has remained the same: help people, care for people, and be there when they need you most.
Throughout her years of service, Carey has earned numerous advanced certifications beyond Firefighter I, including Hazmat Operations, Hazmat On-Scene Incident Command, Incident Management Level III, and Fire Police. She has also completed extensive training in fire tactics and behavior, leadership, vehicle extrication, fire apparatus driving, and fire hydraulics.
She has served as a driver/operator of Engine 1722, Rescue Engine 1723, and Special Services 1729.
But perhaps one of the most meaningful parts of Carey’s story is that service runs deep in her family.
Carey comes from a long-standing family tradition of service to the HLVFC.
Her father, the late Robert Fenton Sr., served as Fire Chief in the late 1970s. Her mother, Beverly, has been a member since 1971 and also served as Fire Chief in 1982.
Her brothers continued that tradition as well. Robert “Bobby” Fenton Jr.is a member and Past Chief, while her brother Michael proudly serves today as Fire Chief of the HLVFC.
And the tradition continues with Carey’s husband, Dave, who serves with the fire company as a member of the Fire Police Division, Fire Police Officer, and EMT.
Now, perhaps the most powerful part of this legacy — Carey’s two sons, Thomas and Cody, are current firefighters at Station 172.
That means three consecutive generations of the Fenton family have dedicated themselves to serving Hampton Lakes and Southampton Township.
That isn't simply a family tradition.
That is a legacy.
So, as a community, please take a moment out of your busy day to join us in recognizing and thanking Past Chief and Firefighter Carey Parks for her years of dedication, commitment, leadership, and service to the HLVFC and the people of Hampton Lakes and Southampton Township.
And the example you've set will continue through the generations that follow.
From all of us at the HLVFC and from the community you have served so faithfully, and most of all, thank you for dedicating so much of your life to helping others.
Thank you, Carey.
🚒❤️ Your service is a legacy that will never be forgotten. ❤️🚒
