City of Decatur Fire/Rescue Inspector Ryan Taylor passed away Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016. Photo from The Decatur Minute

A city of Decatur firefighter passed away Sunday morning, leaving behind his wife and four children. The city said it’s the first active firefighter death for Decatur’s fire/rescue team.

The city blog, The Decatur Minute, said that 40-year-old Inspector Ryan Taylor started his career with the city in 2001 and served as a firefighter, driver, and inspector. “Ryan ensured the safety of the Decatur community through many of his building inspections and public safety education. His detailed craftsmanship can be seen in the landscaping at both Decatur fire stations and Fire Station 2’s shed,” the post said.

“His common sense and leadership skills made him an experienced and natural firefighter. Ryan always had a smile on his face and knew how to bring a family atmosphere to a work environment,” the city said.

“The City of Decatur Fire/Rescue Department appreciates the community’s support during this tough time,” the city said. “If residents want to bring something to the department, please donate canned goods or winter coats for those in need. Ryan will always be deeply respected and loved by all of us.  Please keep the family and department in your thoughts and prayers.”

Here’s the full note from the city:

City of Decatur Fire/Rescue regrets to inform you of our family’s loss of Ryan Taylor.  Inspector Taylor, age 40, died suddenly Sunday morning leaving a wife and four children. Ryan began his career with the City of Decatur in 2001.  He served as a firefighter, driver, and inspector. His common sense and leadership skills made him an experienced and natural firefighter. Ryan always had a smile on his face and knew how to bring a family atmosphere to a work environment. Ryan ensured the safety of the Decatur community through many of his building inspections and public safety education. His detailed craftsmanship can be seen in the landscaping at both Decatur fire stations and Fire Station 2’s shed. This is the City of Decatur Fire/Rescue’s first active firefighter death. The City of Decatur Fire/Rescue Department appreciates the community’s support during this tough time. If residents want to bring something to the department, please donate canned goods or winter coats for those in need. Ryan will always be deeply respected and loved by all of us.  Please keep the family and department in your thoughts and prayers.

[adsanity id=27331 align=aligncenter /]