Doe Valley VFD Chief Lunceford dies

On Aug. 24, after a bout with cancer, Dave Lunceford, Chief of the Doe Valley Volunteer Fire Department died. He leaves behind a family and community that loves and cherishes him as evidenced by those who spoke up about the way he touched their lives and left a lasting impression they will always remember. Lunceford's son Jonathan said, "My dad was my hero, my best friend. My dad was an all-star dad, you couldn't ask for a better dad. He was in the fire department longer than I've been alive. Me and my little brother both followed and joined the fire department as junior members. Dad was a friend to everybody. I never knew anyone that had a harsh word towards him." The oldest record the Lunceford family has concerning his volunteer service at the Doe Valley Fire Department goes back to a 1983 newspaper article in the Tomahawk referencing him as chief. That adds up to at least 43 years in public service on top of being a rescue squad volunteer for 11+ years. Jonathan remembers him always staying busy and versatile when it came to work sharing, "He worked every job in the world, farmed, nothing he didn't do, he never sat down." Lunceford inspired many in the Doe Valley and Mountain City communities and has had a lasting impact on others like Jason Blevins, Director of Johnson County Emergency Management who gave his tribute saying, "Dave Lunceford was more than a fire chief; he was the kind of friend and leader you could always count on. He dedicated himself to protecting his community, helping others, and serving with a genuine heart." Blevins remembers Lunceford for always being there for him professionally and personally saying, "Those of us who had the privilege of calling Dave a friend will remember not only the chief who answered the call, but the man who was always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, and stand beside you when you needed him." Doe Valley Volunteer Fire Department will feel his absence intensely as he has had a big influence on his fellow volunteer fire fighters there like Justin Roark who said, "I've known Dave all my life. He dedicated most of his life to the service of the community and to the fire department. He leaves behind an unmatched legacy of leadership, mentorship and friendship and a hole that will never be filled. He will truly be missed by everyone in the Doe Valley community and the Doe Valley FD." Lunceford has a place in the hearts and minds of those he helped over the years and the memories live on as he is honored for being someone who gave his all for the community he served and loved. As Emergency Management Director Jason Blevins summarized, "His legacy will live on in the people and community he served as well as the firefighters and responders he mentored." The Second District VFD added their sentiments saying, "Chief, your dedication, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to not only Doe Valley but to Johnson County will forever be remembered. Your service, leadership, and the impact you made on those around you will not be forgotten."