Rockledge Fire Department says goodbye to one of their finest

On October 15^th, 2015, after 34 years of loyal service, our longest standing member served his last shift with the Rockledge Fire Department.  Chief Jeptha Sunday is now retired and free to spend his days on his own accord, having more than earned the liberty to indulge in every recreation and pleasure possible to him. 

While in his service to the department, Chief Sunday conducted matters in such a way that would inspire nothing less than the highest esteem from all who crossed his path.  His demeanor boldly conveyed the purest honesty, with no trace of the crude deceit which is such an unfortunate and common hindrance to interpersonal dealings. 

He led his people with compassion, humility and empathy, and he never gave the impression that he thought he was any better than anyone else.  He had a policy of an open door, an open mind, and an open heart, and treated the members of his department as if they were his own family. 

He was a true leader because these traits inspired a desire within people to follow him, even when they thought he was wrong.  He is quoted as saying that the people around him were the best part of his career, and it certainly shows by the way that he treated all of them. 

As chief Sunday moves on to the next chapter, so it will be for the department.  The calls will keep coming and the wheels will keep turning.  But those of us who had the privilege of serving under Chief Sunday’s leadership will always regard his time as some of the best times.  His tenure as chief – short lived as it was - has left an example for future leaders which will live on for many years to come. 

With all sincerity, the Rockledge Professional Firefighters would like to wish Chief Sunday a happy, healthy, and lengthy retirement. 

 

 

 

Posted by M. Clark