Paden City and Wetzel County are mourning the loss of Fire Chief Jim Richmond, a lifelong servant to the fire service whose dedication spanned more than seven decades.
Chief Richmond passed away on Tuesday after 74 years of service with the Paden City Volunteer Fire Company. He served as fire chief for more than 70 of those years, making him one of the longest-serving fire chiefs in the region.
Wetzel County Emergency Management and E-911 officials shared condolences with Chief Richmond’s family and the members of the Paden City Volunteer Fire Company, noting that both Wetzel County and the State of West Virginia have lost a deeply respected and devoted member of the fire service community.
Chief Richmond’s legacy is defined by unwavering commitment, leadership, and a lifetime spent protecting others. His impact on Paden City and the broader fire service community will not be forgotten.
