In Memoriam.
Honoring the members of Gilmer County Fire/Rescue we have lost. In our department's history, we have lost one member of our own — and we will add to this page only if we must.
For 10 years, Eric Maddox proudly served Gilmer County Fire Rescue as a Firefighter/EMT. But to those who had the privilege of knowing Eric, he was so much more than the uniform he wore or the title he carried.
Eric was everyone's friend.
He had a smile that could light up a room and a personality that made people feel welcome. No matter what was happening in his own life, Eric always seemed to find a way to put others first. If someone needed a hand, he would be there. If someone needed encouragement, he was there. If someone simply needed a friend, Eric was there.
That was Eric.
He gave himself freely, never asking for recognition or expecting anything in return. His willingness to help others, his love for his brothers and sisters in the fire service, and the genuine kindness he showed to everyone around him left an impression that will never fade.
Eric is loved by his family and is equally loved by his fire department family. The bonds created in the fire service run deep, and losing one of our own leaves a hole that can never truly be filled.
Eric is deeply missed.
Although he is no longer standing beside us in the station, riding the truck, answering the call, or sharing that unmistakable smile, his legacy continues through the people whose lives he touched.
In honor of Eric, Gilmer County Fire Rescue established the Live Like Maddox Award—an annual award presented to one special firefighter who embodies the qualities that made Eric who he was.
Someone who puts others before themselves.
Someone who is always willing to lend a hand.
Someone who brings people together.
Someone who serves with a genuine heart.
Someone who doesn't just wear the uniform but lives the values behind it.
Someone who "Lives Like Maddox."
The Live Like Maddox Award is more than an award. It is a reminder that the greatest impact we can have isn't measured by calls answered, awards earned, or years served. It is measured by the people we help, the lives we touch, and the difference we make simply by being there for others.
Eric made that difference.
His time with us may have ended, but his legacy continues.
Forever our brother.
Forever our friend.
Forever a part of Gilmer County Fire Rescue.
Loves & Lives Like Maddox.
In memory of Eric Maddox.
Never forgotten. Always missed.
Honoring Retired SAR K9 Duke.
Duke was Gilmer County Fire/Rescue's first Search and Rescue K9, partnered with handler Mikey Bramlett. Together they built our department's K9 search program from the ground up — training for hundreds of hours and responding to real missions that brought missing loved ones safely home. Duke was more than a working dog; he was part of our Fire/Rescue family for many years, and everyone who worked around him knew how special he was. His legacy continues through his son, K9 Axel, now one of our active Search and Rescue K9s, and K9 Havoc, the newest member of our K9 program. Our thanks to Mikey and the Bramlett family for sharing Duke with our department and community for so many years. Rest easy, Duke — your mission is complete.
Full tribute & more photos on Facebook ↗
