Dothan Fire Captain Retires After 28-Year Career

John Parrish, a beloved paramedic and Hazmat expert, leaves the department after nearly three decades of service.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:50pm

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After 28 years with the Dothan Fire Department in Alabama, Captain and paramedic John Parrish is retiring. Dothan Fire officials praised Parrish's passion for the job and his dedication to his crew, saying he always showed up with a genuine love for the fire service and made sure his team was prepared both on and off the job.

Why it matters

Parrish's retirement marks the end of an era for the Dothan Fire Department, as he was known for his expertise in firefighting, Hazmat response, and caring leadership. His departure will leave a void in the department that will be difficult to fill, but his legacy of service and mentorship will continue to inspire future generations of Dothan firefighters.

The details

Parrish says he knew he wanted to become a firefighter from a young age, after watching the TV show 'Emergency' growing up. That passion was cemented when he got involved with the Rehobeth Fire Department during his senior year of high school. Over the course of his 28-year career, Parrish rose through the ranks to become a respected captain and paramedic, known for his dedication to his crew and the Dothan community.

  • Parrish began his firefighting career in the late 1990s.
  • He has served with the Dothan Fire Department for 28 years.
  • Parrish is retiring from the department in April 2026.

The players

John Parrish

A 28-year veteran of the Dothan Fire Department, where he served as a captain and paramedic. Parrish is known for his expertise in firefighting, Hazmat response, and his caring leadership style.

Dothan Fire Department

The fire department in Dothan, Alabama, where Parrish spent his entire firefighting career. The department praised Parrish's dedication and passion for the job upon his retirement.

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What they’re saying

“Capt. Parrish wasn't just passionate about the fire service... and Hazmat, he lived it. Day in and day out, he showed up with a love for the job and, more importantly, a genuine love for his people. He knew his crew, he cared about them, and he made sure they were prepared, both on and off the fireground.”

— Dothan Fire Department, Department Officials

“Don't ever lost sight of the reason you chose this career. Always treat your coworkers like family, because they are! Also, treat the citizens you respond to just like you would want your family treated. Don't become complacent. Always strive to advance in your career and grow in knowledge.”

— John Parrish, Retiring Fire Captain

What’s next

The Dothan Fire Department will now begin the process of finding a new captain to fill Parrish's role, with the goal of maintaining the high level of service and leadership that he provided during his nearly three decades with the department.

The takeaway

Parrish's retirement marks the end of an era for the Dothan Fire Department, as he was a beloved and respected leader known for his expertise, dedication, and care for his crew. His departure will leave a void, but his legacy of service and mentorship will continue to inspire future generations of Dothan firefighters.