Biographical Comments
In Memory of Fire Chief Jeff Waldrep
A Legacy of Leadership, Dedication, and Humble Service
Fire Chief Jeff Waldrep dedicated his life to protecting and serving others—spending over three decades as a pillar of the Anniston Fire Department and a trusted leader in the fire service community across Alabama and beyond. With 31 years of faithful service, Chief Waldrep rose through every rank of the department he loved, ultimately serving as Fire Chief for the City of Anniston. Throughout his career, he was the definition of a humble servant-leader: courageous, compassionate, highly accomplished, and profoundly dedicated to his calling.
From his earliest days in the firehouse, Chief Waldrep was known for his work ethic, calm presence, and deep respect for the job. His character and competence earned the admiration of his peers and the trust of those he led. Along the way, he also served as the City of Anniston’s Fire Marshal, where he not only ensured public safety but built strong partnerships throughout the region.
Chief Waldrep believed deeply in lifelong learning and professional development. He was committed to excellence in every aspect of his craft, earning an astonishing 27 ProBoard and IFSAC certifications—a remarkable accomplishment that reflects his tireless pursuit of knowledge and skill. His impressive certification portfolio covered all facets of the fire service, including leadership, fire investigation, hazardous materials, rescue, and incident command. Few firefighters in the nation have achieved such a distinguished level of credentialed expertise.
His leadership and expertise were recognized statewide when he was appointed Program Manager for the Alabama Fire College’s Fire Investigator Program. In this role, Chief Waldrep mentored, trained, and influenced a new generation of fire professionals, helping to shape the standards and integrity of fire investigation across Alabama. He took great pride in developing others, and his impact will be felt for many years to come.
As Fire Chief, he led the Anniston Fire Department into a new era—modernizing equipment, improving training, and raising operational standards. His vision and dedication were responsible for many of the department’s most meaningful advancements. He was respected for his strategic thinking, but more importantly, for his steady presence and servant’s heart. The department is undoubtedly stronger today because of his leadership and is well-positioned for the future—a future that carries his fingerprints in every corner.
Chief Waldrep was a proud and lifelong member of IAFF Local 508, never forgetting his roots. He was, at his core, a "fireman’s chief"—trusted by the rank and file, known for walking the floor, checking in on his people, and standing by them through every challenge. His advocacy for firefighters and his genuine concern for their well-being earned him deep respect and loyalty from his crews.
Beyond Anniston, Chief Waldrep’s influence extended throughout the state and the nation. He served with honor as a Past President of the Alabama Association of Fire Chiefs, where he worked tirelessly to strengthen fire service leadership across Alabama. His peers across the country recognized him as a man of character and wisdom—a quiet but powerful force for good in the fire service. He led not for accolades or recognition, but because he believed in the mission and in serving others.
Despite his many titles and achievements, Chief Waldrep never sought the spotlight. He led with humility, never forgetting that leadership was a responsibility, not a privilege. He was a steady hand in times of crisis, a source of wisdom for those around him, and a constant reminder of what it meant to lead with grace, dignity, and purpose.
Chief Jeff Waldrep’s legacy is one of extraordinary service, selflessness, and excellence. The City of Anniston, the fire service, and all who had the privilege of knowing him are better because of him. His life’s work has left a lasting mark on the department he helped build, the professionals he helped shape, and the lives he protected with courage and compassion.
Rest easy, Chief. Your legacy lives on, and your example will continue to guide us. We’ll take it from here.