Engineer Nobles Retiring After 29 Years

After 29 years at Nashville Fire Rescue Department, Engineer Ronald “Ronnie” Nobles will be handing in the keys to his engine on July 1.

Nobles started in June 1990 after two years of attempting to get hired on with the department. “I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter,” says Nobles. “I had several relatives in the fire service, and I also like to help people in need.” Nobles also says this “job of a lifetime” assisted him with his goal in making a difference in someone’s life.

When Nobles started with the department, he remembers only running about 2,000 calls a year. “We didn’t make medical runs back then.” Now, Nobles notes the department responds to an average of 13,000 or so calls annually. As for his most memorable call of his career, Nobles says he will never forget responding to January Street for a small child not breathing. His Captain picked the child up and started cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while walking toward the ambulance. “That’s something that’s hard to forget.”

The Engineer will miss his work family tremendously. “The greatest thing about working for this department has been the people. I have worked with some of the smartest crew members and Captains, and they have helped me throughout my career. I can never thank them enough.”

Nobles also thanks his wife, Penny, for always being there for him and taking care of things at home. “The life of a firefighter’s wife isn’t always easy,” he comments, “but she never once complained.”

Relaxation is on the agenda for Nobles’ days post-retirement. He also plans to be more involved with his church, spend more time with family, and play a lot more golf.

“I’ve never been around Ronnie when he wasn’t smiling,” says Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks. “He is one of those people that you know you can count on day or night. He truly loves helping people and it shows. He will be missed.”