KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — One of Knoxville’s first Black firefighters died on May 30 at the age of 98.
Deputy Chief Luther Bradley was hired by the Knoxville Fire Department in 1952, eventually making it to the rank of Deputy Chief-Fire Marshal in 1985. He retired after 36 years of service in 1988.
“Many of us at KFD were fortunate to know Chief Bradley, and his legacy will live on in our hearts,” KFD wrote in a post on social media. “Chief Bradley didn’t likely know it at the time, but he opened many doors for future firefighters in Knoxville, and we will always be grateful.”…