UPDATE: Harold Hairston will be laid to rest on Nov. 10, 2016.
Former Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Harold Hairston, who served the city for a dozen years, has died.
The fire department announced Hairston’s death late Tuesday night.
Former Mayor Ed Rendell appointed Hairston in 1992, as the city's first African-American fire commissioner. Hairston served 12 years, also under the Street Administration, until his retirement in 2004.
"Thank you for your service Sir," said the fire department in a Facebook post. [[399640011, C]]
The fire department didn’t immediately reveal how Hairston died.
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"I am deeply saddened by the news of Commissioner Hairston's passing," said current Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. "He was a dedicated firefighter and an outstanding commissioner. He left a lasting impact on the Department and our city. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will be missed." [[238427591, C]]