John J. Doster was born in Fallsington, Pennsylvania, in October 1919. John moved to the Edgely section of Levittown, Pennsylvania, when he was a child and resided there until his death. John served as chief for 25 years and also as president of the Edgely Fire Company in Levittown during his time. John was a lifetime member of the Edgely Fire Company. As chief, he was instrumental in bringing new technology and advances to the department.

John served as one of the first fire instructors in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He also served as Bristol Township fire marshal, assistant Bucks County fire marshal, and was a recipient of the National Volunteer Fire Council Lifetime Achievement Award. John was recognized as the longest serving volunteer in the state of Pennsylvania, serving a total of 82 years until his passing. John served as fire police captain and responded to his last call in that capacity.

John devoted his life to the wellbeing of the community. His favorite line was, “You join the fire department to save life and property,” and John lived by that motto. John was awarded a Life Saving Commendation for a rescue of a pregnant woman from an apartment fire in 1979, where he suffered a heart attack.

John served as a corporal in the United States Army during World War II and fought in North Africa. He was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during the battle. John was also awarded the Bronze and Silver Stars.

John was married to Lydia Wright until her passing and had two sons who served in the Edgely Fire Company, carrying on their father’s legacy. His son John became chief after his father stepped down due to medical issues. John’s family remains involved in the fire service in Bucks County.