Thomas Ridgeway Obituary, Death – Rainsville Fire Chief Remembered for More Than Two Decades of Service to DeKalb County

The DeKalb County, Alabama, community is mourning the passing of Thomas Ridgeway, a respected firefighter, former Rainsville fire chief and longtime DeKalb County Farmers Federation leader whose commitment to public service touched many people across the region.

Ridgeway, 52, of Fyffe, died Sunday, September 13, 2026. His death was confirmed in his published obituary from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel, which also lists funeral services for Wednesday, September 16.

The DeKalb County Farmers Federation described Ridgeway as much more than a board member, remembering him as a mentor, public servant and friend who gave more than two decades of service to the organization.

Remembered as a Dedicated Public Servant

Ridgeway’s career was closely connected to the fire service and public safety in DeKalb County.

He served as fire chief for the City of Rainsville, with city records showing that he was formally appointed to the position in November 2016.

During his years in the fire department, Ridgeway became known for his leadership and his efforts to strengthen the department’s ability to serve the community. His work included helping improve staffing and equipment while supporting the firefighters who worked alongside him.

After retiring from the Rainsville Fire Department, Ridgeway remained active in community affairs. His obituary states that he served for 20 years on the DeKalb County Farmers Federation board.

A Lasting Impact on Agriculture and Public Safety

The DeKalb County Farmers Federation remembered Ridgeway for his commitment to agriculture, farm safety and public safety.

Throughout more than two decades with the organization, he held several positions on its board and served on Alfa state committees as well as the Alfa Young Farmers State Committee.

His knowledge and experience allowed him to contribute in several areas, but the organization said it was his genuine concern for people that made him particularly memorable.

Ridgeway was also known for his personality. The Farmers Federation remembered his quick wit, stories and ability to make people laugh, qualities that made his presence meaningful beyond his professional responsibilities.

Family and Friends Remember Thomas Ridgeway

Beyond his public service, Ridgeway was remembered as a devoted husband, father and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Ridgeway, and son, Cason Ridgeway, along with his special cousin Sherry Gross, mother-in-law Virginia Bailey, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Jamie Ridgeway.

The Farmers Federation said Ridgeway’s influence could be seen not only in the work he performed but also in the relationships he developed over the years.

Those who knew him are now remembering the conversations, laughter, guidance and friendship he shared throughout his years of service.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation for Thomas Ridgeway will be held Wednesday, September 16, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel in Rainsville. Funeral services will begin at 4 p.m., with Rev. Richard Garland officiating. Burial will follow at Corinth Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Thomas Ridgeway’s memory to an account for Cason and Jennifer Ridgeway at Peoples Independent Bank.

A specific cause of death has not been disclosed in the published obituary.

For the DeKalb County Farmers Federation, the Rainsville fire service and the many people who knew him, Thomas Ridgeway leaves behind a legacy built around service, leadership, friendship and a genuine commitment to his community.

His years of work in public safety and agriculture, along with the relationships he built along the way, will remain an important part of how he is remembered.