Fire station dedicated in honor of Wadesboro-native, first black fire chief

GREENSBORO — Greensboro Fire Department’s Fire Station 7 and EMS Base 1 were reopened and dedicated to Wadesboro-native Ray K. Flowers in honor of his 37 years of service and for being the first and only African American to serve in the top position.

Flowers, now retired, was born in Wadesboro, N.C. on March 25, 1939. The eldest of six children was born to Vernel “Boose” Flowers and Mattie Tillman Flowers on what is now known as Flowers Street off Highway 52 in the northwestern area of Wadesboro, NC.

He graduated from ACTS (Anson County Training School) later renamed J. R. Faison High School where he was an outstanding student. His most exciting memory during his high school years was being a part of the school’s two football championships his junior and senior year, going undefeated both years and coached by the legendary Coach Fred Worthy.

Skills learned in high school easily transitioned to his college life which prepared him for the rigorous and challenging curriculum offered at North Carolina A & T State University in Greensboro where he majored in Electronical Technology. After achieving his Degree in Electronical Technology in 1961, Flowers became a member of the first African American Fire Department for the City of Greensboro.

Ray made himself available for all training opportunities and programs offered by the Fire Department and City of Greensboro. He became very active in personnel development and city government. He progressed quickly through the ranks first achieving Captain in 1975, Battalion Chief 1979, Deputy Chief 1988 and ultimately in 1993 becoming the first African American Fire Chief for the City of Greensboro.

In 1960 Flowers married Martha Louise Tatum. From this union, two children were born: Sandra and Hugh DaVinci Flowers. He has one granddaughter, Rachel, and two grandsons Taft Sr. and Scottie, as well as one great-grandson T.J. (Taft Jr.).

The Flowers family and friends are so very proud of his awards and accomplishments and the legacy he has created. They are forever grateful for his sacrifice, and dedication to his craft and community service.

Please feel free to contact Walter Flowers, Ray K. Flowers, or Raymond Flowers if you have questions or require further information in reference to the dedication or Ray’s outstanding legacy.