PHOENIX — The Flagstaff Fire Department is mourning the loss of one of its own. Deputy Chief Jerry Bills died on Oct. 9, the department said.

Bills dedicated 40 years to the fire service and was with the Flagstaff Fire Department for 19 years.

"He was known not only for his leadership within the department, but also for his mentorship, his compassion for others, and his fierce loyalty to his fellow firefighters and community," a statement from the department said.

Bills was instrumental in securing almost $7 million in grants for the department, which "strengthened the Flagstaff Fire Department and partner agencies throughout northern Arizona, funding lifesaving training, equipment, and leadership development that reshaped the culture of the regional fire service," according to the depa

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