Rebecca Evans
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) – After 44 years of dedicated service, leadership and mentorship, Battalion Chief Paris Jenkins has officially retired from the St. Joseph Fire Department, marking the end of an extraordinary career that has left a lasting impact on the department and the community.
“I wasn’t inspired, I was unemployed, and I needed a job,” Jenkins said, as he claimed he didn’t enter the fire service with a grand vision. “That’s what I told them at my first interview. So I got points for honesty.”
What started as a job soon became a lifelong commitment.
“One of the reasons I stayed was the opportunity to learn. There’s always stuff to learn, and I enjoy that, so I just keep doing it,” he said.
Over the years, Jenkins witnessed and helped lead remarkable changes in firefighting. From riding the backs of 1947 fire trucks to operating modern engines equipped with advanced technology, he adapted alongside the profession.
“We used to just fight fire. Now we’re running many med calls as well as having to fill the gap in technical rescues,” he noted.
Jenkins also noted the job has created deep bonds between St. Joseph firefighters.
“This isn’t just a job… We’re responsible for each other’s safety as well as our own,” said Jenkins. “It becomes a large family. You spend more time here with these people than you do many times with your own family.”
Among the many calls he responded to, one in particular remains etched in his memory.
“When we arrived, there was heavy black smoke about three-fourths of the way down the front door, and the neighbor came over and told us there was an 8-year-old trapped inside,” said Jenkins. “A rescue company with no water, no hose, with only two people made an entry into this hostile environment. It was very hot in there, and black smoke could turn into yellow flame at any minute. And they went in and found the child. That child is doing well today, to my knowledge. They made a heck of a save.”
Jenkins also recalled his role in supporting the Bethany dive team in West Plains, where they were credited with 75 rescues. “It was a very rewarding feeling.”
Serving as a Battalion Chief for 27 years, Jenkins also took great pride in education and training.
He attended the National Fire Academy and completed specialized coursework, including advanced training in hazardous materials.
“I feel passionate about learning,” said Jenkins. “And once I have that information, I feel it’s my responsibility to pass it on, just like those who came before me passed it on to me.”
However, balancing a demanding career with personal life was not without challenges.
“My regret is I didn’t spend more time with my family,” he shared candidly.
To honor his decades of service, a retirement celebration was held on Tuesday, July 29, at the SJFD Headquarters, located at 401 S. 7th St.
Friends, family, coworkers and community members gathered to celebrate his career, share memories and express gratitude for his contributions.
The event ran from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., filled with heartfelt stories and appreciation for a man who has given so much to the city.
Jenkins leaves behind a legacy of calm leadership, relentless curiosity, and dedication to service.
“I feel very honored to be a part of this team,” Jenkins said. “St. Joseph is fortunate to have such a hearty group of people who are willing to go out and weather extremes and do the job.”
While he steps away from active duty, his influence will continue to shape the department for years to come.
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Romello Hernandez (Photo: PPD)
Courtesy: Arizona Western College
