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.