Asheville Firefighters Honor a Fallen Hero
Asheville, N.C. – On a somber yet heartfelt day, firefighters from all over the country gathered in Asheville to pay tribute to one of their own, Chief Tony Garrison. This emotional procession was held on a sunny Tuesday to commemorate the life and service of Garrison, who tragically lost his life during a landslide triggered by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on September 27.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Tony Garrison was not just a firefighter; he was a devoted Battalion Chief with the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department and also served as a volunteer firefighter with the Garren Creek Volunteer Fire Department. His commitment to saving lives and protecting the community was evident, and the news of his passing struck hard, even for those who only knew him casually.
“That news is pretty hard to take,” said Christian McLemore, a former co-worker and current firefighter with the Weaverville Fire Department. “Even if I wasn’t really close to him, it’s hard to hear that somebody you knew for a good while and had pretty good conversations with is gone. That was pretty hard to take.”
A Touching Procession
The day was marked by a solemn procession that started at the Ingles parking lot off Charlotte Highway. Firefighters from various agencies, including participants from the New York City Fire Department, came together to honor Garrison’s legacy. As they marched, the camaraderie shown through their uniforms provided a sense of unity amidst their grief.
“Chief Garrison was a great guy. He was funny, very outgoing, and had a knack for saying things that would brighten your day,” shared Kenneth Letford, the Deputy Fire Chief at the Reynolds Fire Department. This sentiment echoed through the hearts of many who gathered to remember a life full of laughter and unwavering dedication.
A Private Viewing
The procession concluded at a nearby church where Garrison’s casket was taken for a private viewing. The outpouring of support for Garrison’s family was truly inspiring. Buncombe County officials announced that in lieu of flowers, Garrison’s family requests that those who wish to honor his memory consider donating to the North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Foundation, a GoFundMe page set up in his honor, or Chestnut Hill Baptist Church.
The Bonds of Brotherhood
This tragic event highlights not only the risks that firefighters face daily but also the strong bonds formed among them. Firefighters are often seen as heroes in our communities, but they are also part of a tight-knit family who lean on each other during times of sorrow.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Garrison remembered him not only for his bravery but also for his warmth and spirit. His legacy is one of selflessness and commitment—a true reflection of what it means to be a firefighter.
Looking Forward
As the days pass, the Asheville community continues to heal from this significant loss. The collective support shown underscores the importance of coming together in times of adversity. Garrison’s memory will surely live on, reminding all of us that heroes walk among us, often in uniforms and with courageous hearts.
In a world where everyday heroes often go unnoticed, Chief Tony Garrison’s life serves as a beautiful reminder of dedication, love, and service to others. His laugh will be missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire present and future generations of firefighters and community members alike.
