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.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
"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]]
