Chattanooga Firefighters Honor a Beloved Captain
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – In a heartfelt tribute that resonates deeply with the local community, Chattanooga Firefighters are coming together to honor Captain George Turley, who sadly passed away over the weekend. Captain Turley dedicated an impressive 31 years of his life to the Chattanooga Fire Department, demonstrating unwavering commitment and service.
A Tragic Loss
On Saturday, while he was doing what he loved most – working out at Fire Station 16 – Captain Turley experienced a medical emergency that took his life. Fire Chief Phil Hyman expressed his sorrow, saying, “George was always doing the right thing. If there’s one thing I can say about him, it’s that he always did things the right way, whether as a company officer, a husband, or a father.”
A Journey of Service
Captain Turley joined the department back in 1993 and made it his mission to grow not only personally but also to uplift those around him. Through hard work and dedication, he climbed the ranks from a firefighter to captain in operations, where he was on the front lines with his fellow crew members every day.
Mentor and Leader
Chief Hyman pointed out that Turley was not just a firefighter but also a mentor. He dedicated a significant portion of his time sharing his knowledge with new recruits and even worked alongside the Tennessee Valley Authority to train other firefighters. “He was all about taking the institutional knowledge he had and sharing it,” Hyman stated.
A Community Pillar
Beyond his duties at the fire station, Captain Turley was also heavily involved in the Chattanooga community. According to Chief Hyman, “He spent a lot of time with his church and in the community, sharing what he knew.” His efforts went beyond the typical call of duty, showcasing his deep commitment to serving others.
Remembering the Family
The loss of Captain Turley is felt profoundly, not just within the fire department but throughout the entire community. Chief Hyman reflected on the tight-knit nature of fire crews, stating, “To lose a fire captain in a station is like losing a family member. We’re very family oriented, and the crew was just as attached to Captain Turley as they were to their own families.”
Funeral Arrangements
As the community prepares to say their final goodbyes, funeral arrangements have been announced. Visitation will take place on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel located at 5401 Hwy 153. A viewing will occur on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at St. Jude in Hixson at 930 Ashland Terrace. After the service, the procession will lead to Lakewood Memory Gardens at 4621 Shallowford Road.
His Legacy Lives On
At the age of 58, Captain Turley leaves behind his loving wife Debbie and their two sons. Through his dedication and service, he has left a footprint that will be remembered fondly by those who knew him, both in the line of duty and beyond.
As we bid farewell to Captain George Turley, let us remember the values he stood for and the lives he touched. From all corners of the community, we are sending love and support to his family and the brave firefighters who will carry on his legacy.
