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Flags across the county will be flown at half-mast to honor Jeff Garner, 61, a longtime member of the Charles County Volunteer Fire and EMS agency who spent nearly 40 decades as a popular civil servant in his hometown of La Plata.
"Jeff dedicated his life to serving our town, beginning in an entry-level role and working his way up to become an invaluable leader in the Public Works Department," the town posted in a tribute on Facebook.
"But Jeff was more than just an employee—he was family to us all. His infectious sense of humor, positive outlook on life, and calm demeanor made him a joy to be around."
Garner was a President of the Charles County Volunteer Rescue Squad and Director of Public Works for the Town of La Plata before his death, and he was described as being "a dedicated public servant who spent a lifetime serving the Charles County community with passion and selflessness."
His career began as a member of the La Plata Volunteer Fire Department, before moving on to the Newburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department, and most recently, the Charles County Volunteer Rescue Squad.
"His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, and he will be sorely missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time," officials said.
"Rest in peace, Jeff—you’ll always remain a part of our town’s legacy."
Following his death, there was an outpouring of support throughout the community for the man who had a passion for bowling, loved his Ravens, while also rooting for the rival New York Yankees.
According to his LinkedIn account, Garner graduated from La Plata High School in 1980 before beginning his lengthy career working in various positions to better serve the Charles County community.
"Jeff was a remarkable individual who made significant contributions to his community. His leadership roles as Director of Public Works for the Town of La Plata and President of Charles County Volunteer Rescue Squad, EMS 51, demonstrate his commitment to public service and emergency response," Myra Neale posted on Facebook.
"Jeff will be sorely missed."
Garner leaves behind a wife and son, who were also members of Station 51 in La Plata, according to the agency.
"This morning, everyone’s favorite Jeff, Jeff-Fa-Fa, Jeffie, Dad, and best Granddad/Guh Guh, husband and friend that you could imagine, suddenly passed away," another loved one posted on social media. "The oldest soul but the BIGGEST kid you could ever meet ... The life of the party ... The light in any dark room.
"Our hearts are breaking, and this one is going to sting for a VERY long time."
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