FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – It is with profound sorrow that the Flagstaff Fire Department announces the passing of Deputy Fire Chief Jerry Bills, who died on the evening of Oct. 9, 2025.
Deputy Chief Jerry Bills dedicated his career to the fire service for nearly 40 years, 19 of which were with the Flagstaff Fire Department. He was known not only for his leadership within the department, but also for his mentorship, his compassion for others, and his fierce loyalty to his fellow firefighters and community.
Over his career, Chief Bills was instrumental in securing or assisting with nearly 100 grant awards totaling almost $7 million. These investments strengthened the Flagstaff Fire Department and partner agencies throughout northern Arizona, funding lifesaving training, equipment, and leadership development that reshaped the culture of the regional fire service. His grant leadership extended beyond the City, including successful awards for Summit Fire and Medical District, which provided a water tender, radio communications equipment, and a diesel exhaust removal system to eliminate cancer-causing contaminants from apparatus bays. Through these efforts, the Blue Card Incident Command System and Fire Officer Leadership Programs I and II became core components of the region’s leadership and operational training framework.
In preparation for the passing of Chief Bills, plans have been composed to honor him with full Line of Duty Death honors. Details regarding memorial services and departmental tributes will be shared with the community in the coming days.
In this difficult time of mourning, the Flagstaff Fire Department asks for privacy for the Bills family and encourages the community to remember and celebrate the extraordinary life and service of a true public servant.
