'Trust in His timing': Fire Chief Freddy Howell retiring from post in Bryan County

Bryan County Fire Chief Freddy Howell announced his retirement Tuesday.

After more than a decade of service, Howell said his faith led him to make the decision.

“I have faith in God, pray, and trust in His timing,” said Howell. “I believe it is His will for me to step away from public safety and pursue something different for a few years before retiring for good. On July 3, I completed 39 years in public safety with a government agency, and many of my colleagues have already retired or moved on to other opportunities.”

According to a press release by Bryan County, Howell led his department through cleanup efforts resulting from a tornado that tore apart various parts of North Bryan. The press release also says, “Howell oversaw the expansion and modernization of the department's infrastructure. This included the addition of a new fire station and the renovation of existing stations, resulting in a total of ten stations strategically located across the county. His efforts also secured crucial grants that expanded the department's team of firefighters from 36 to over 100, enhancing emergency response capabilities.”

Under his leadership, the department acquired new tankers, ambulances and upgraded vital equipment to improve care for patients. Howell established holiday traditions such as Breakfast with Santa and Neighborhood Santa Rides.

“In my youth, I sought employment and found inspiration in my older brother, who had served as a firefighter for 13 years,” said Howell. “As I underwent training, I developed a passion for the profession, particularly the satisfaction of aiding others. Working alongside a skilled and forward-thinking fire chief further fueled my ambition to advance in the field and become a fire chief myself.”

Howell has plans to join the private sector.

“I have been presented with the opportunity to become a customer relationship manager at a promising company that offers an innovative product essential for fire suppression worldwide,” said Howell. “Following my departure from Bryan County, I will be taking on this new role.”

Latrice Williams is a general assignment reporter covering Bryan and Effingham County. She can be reached at lwilliams6@gannett.com.