Community mourns fire chief

KERMIT, W.Va. (WSAZ) - A community is mourning the loss of its fire chief.

Wilburn “Hawkey” Preece Jr. was the chief at Kermit.

He’d also been on the town council for two decades.

Preece died in a hospital on Monday, Aug. 25.

The Kermit mayor said he’s been battling health issues.

Preece’s firefighting uniform is being displayed outside the station, and a black wreath is hung on the door at City Hall.

The viewing will be held tonight, Aug. 27, and tomorrow, Aug. 28, at the old Kermit Gym next to the firehouse.

The mayor said Preece was passionate about serving his community.

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