In Honor of Deputy Chief Firefighter Sam Deems

In Honor of Deputy Chief Firefighter Sam Deems

It is with the deepest sorrow and the heaviest of hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our own. Deputy Chief Sam Deems, age 25, was tragically killed in an automobile accident earlier today, Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

Sam was more than a firefighter—he was a beacon of courage, compassion, and service. In his time with the department, he rose to the role of Deputy Chief not just through dedication and hard work, but because of his character, leadership, and his unwavering love for his community.

From the very beginning, Sam served with passion and heart. He embodied everything a firefighter should be: brave, selfless, and deeply committed to the mission of protecting and saving lives. He met each challenge head-on, never wavering, and always putting others before himself.

But what truly made Sam special wasn’t just what he did—it was who he was:

• He loved life, living each day with energy, laughter, and purpose.
• He loved his family, who were his greatest pride and source of strength.
• He loved his friends, always there with a listening ear, a helping hand, or a well-timed joke.
• He loved his fire department and EMS family, forming bonds that ran deeper than duty.
• And above all, he loved the Lord, walking in faith and leaning into grace, even in life’s most difficult moments.

Today, our department mourns not just a leader, but a brother. The void Sam leaves is immeasurable—his presence was the kind that made everyone around him feel stronger, safer, and seen. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the calls he answered, and the example he set.

As we begin to process this tragic loss, our thoughts turn to Sam’s wife, whose heartbreak is beyond words. In this time of unimaginable grief, we ask our community to lift her in prayer, offer support, and stand with her in love—just as Sam always stood for others.

There are no words that can truly capture what we’ve lost. But we hold on to the truth that Sam’s impact endures. His spirit will forever echo in the halls of our firehouse, in the hearts of those he served, and in the strength of the brotherhood he helped build.

Rest in peace, Deputy Chief Sam Deems.
Your watch is over, but your legacy will never fade.
We’ll carry the torch from here.