DALE CITY, Va. - A Prince William County (web|news) EMT who collapsed during a training exercise nearly two weeks ago was laid to rest Saturday.

Forty-two-year-old Cecilia Turnbough's family, friends and colleagues, who gathered in Dale City for her funeral, said Turnbough was devoted to serving and helping others. And although officials have not released her cause of death, the day provided some closure for her family.

Turnbough wanted to be a firefighter, and served for 8 years as an EMT working toward her dream.

"She was so excited for Fire One and I said, 'keep on going. You'll do great.' It was the same advice she'd given to me three years prior," said her son, Richie Turnbough.

In fact, that was the last conversation 19-year-old Richie had with his mother. That is because on November 9th Turnbough was in training -- making her way through a blackout maze wearing full firefighter gear and a breathing apparatus-- when she lost consciousness and died.

Cecilia leaves behind Richie, 12-year-old Rebecca, 10-year-old Jack and her husband Lt. Chris Turnbough, who also volunteers with Dale City Fire Department, and hundreds of friends who say to them she was like a mother.

"I don't know why Cecilia was taken from us," said Thomas Borsari, a friend. "I just know that she is looking down on us now and she's smiling her signature smile."

For those who knew her best, the moments they shared with Cecilia will be how she is remembered.

"So excited, so vibrant, and not willing to give up no matter what the cost," said, Cindy Colson, of her friend.

Turnbough's husband says he doesn’t think the maze was the cause of his wife's death. A special team continues to investigate her death.