Two fire departments mourning the loss of one of their own

On Thursday, Jan. 22, Rondal Brian Sexton, 61 of Prestonsburg, passed away at Highlands ARH, Prestonsburg. He was a member of the Floyd County Rescue Squad, and a member of the Faith Community Church.

A statement was released by the Floyd County Emergency and Rescue Squad on the afternoon of his passing, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Brian Sexton, a longtime member of the Floyd County Emergency Rescue Squad. Brian dedicated 42 years of his life to serving this community through the squad. Over those decades, he wasn’t just a responder and volunteer, he was a steady presence and someone the squad could always count on. He faithfully served as Secretary and Treasurer, roles that require trust, commitment, and countless hours behind the scenes that often go unseen. Beyond the titles and years of service, Brian was simply a good man. He was known for his kindness, his dedication, and for being one heck of a good cook, always willing to bring people together over a good meal and a good laugh. Brian’s impact on the Rescue Squad and on Floyd County will not be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the service he gave, and the example he set for future generations of volunteers. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all the people whose lives have been touched by him. Please pray for the members of our squad as we grieve the loss of such a huge part of our department. Thank you, Brian, for 42 years of service, sacrifice, and heart. You will be deeply missed.”

Brian was born Sept. 12, 1964 in Prestonsburg, to Rondal Sexton of Prestonsburg and the late Cheryl Sexton. He is survived by his wife, Glenna Kay Graham Sexton; and a brother, Shawn Sexton of Lexington.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date, by Hall Funeral Home, Martin.

The Paintsville Fire Department also suffered a great loss with the passing of retired Assistant Chief, Eugene Ray Reeder, on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at Paintsville ARH Regional Medical Center. He was 71 years old.

Ray was born Feb. 9, 1954, as son of the late Johnnie and Rosa Reeder. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Drema Reeder.

A statement was released from the fire department upon his passing, “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Retired Assistant Chief Ray Reeder. Ray was the very definition of a public servant. He dedicated his life to serving others with integrity, humility, and an unwavering sense of duty. His commitment to the community and to the fire service left a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. Beyond his title and accomplishments, Ray was a mentor in the truest sense of the word. He took the time to teach, to guide, and to believe in people often seeing potential in others before they saw it in themselves. Many of us are better firefighters, leaders, and human beings because of his wisdom and example. Most of all, Ray was a friend. A steady presence, a trusted voice, and someone you could always count on. His kindness, quiet strength, and genuine care for others will never be forgotten. We honor his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest easy, Chief. Your watch is complete.”

Survivors include a sister, Margie Frazier of Thealka. His funeral services were Friday, Jan. 30, in the chapel of Jones-Preston Funeral Home with Jerry Scott officiating.