Longtime NAFD Fire Chief William Douell dies at 81

William Douell began his long career in the New Albany Fire Department (NAFD) in 1978. Through his career he was promoted to Chief, a position he retained until his retirement in 2001.

During his leadership the NAFD doubled the size of its staff, and built Station 2 on South Denton Road. The city purchased a new engine, and a new rescue truck.

“We thank Retired Chief, Unit 30, William Douell for his work that assisted us in becoming the department we are today. I personally would not be in the position I am in today, in both the fire department or the Mississippi Firefighters Association. William gave me my start with New Albany as a volunteer in 1993. He also put me in the Association, where I now sit as the Vice President at Large.

To say he is a main reason why I am who I am today is an understatement, I will be forever grateful.”

Mark Whiteside,

New Albany Fire Chief

Full Obituary: Chief William F. Douell, (RET.)