Longtime Columbia Firefighter Billy Dean Hurt Dies at 65

Hurt was known for his service, leadership, and passion for racing and cooking.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 8:07pm

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Billy Dean Hurt, a 25-year veteran of the Columbia Fire Department who rose to the rank of Captain, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 65 in Kennedale, Texas. Hurt was also known for his work as a safety crew leader at dirt tracks across the Midwest and as an expert instructor of extrication procedures for first responders.

Why it matters

Hurt's death is being mourned by the firefighting and racing communities he served for decades, as he was known for his dedication, expertise, and ability to bring people together through his passions.

The details

Hurt began his career in the fire service as a volunteer with the Boonville Fire Department before joining the Columbia Fire Department, where he served for 25 years until his retirement. He also worked as a service technician for Alex Air Apparatus, traveling the state to sell and service extrication equipment. Hurt was renowned for his skills as a safety crew leader at dirt tracks, where he provided guidance and training to local officials and firefighters.

  • Hurt passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

The players

Billy Dean Hurt

A 65-year-old resident of Boonville, Missouri who served for 25 years as a firefighter with the Columbia Fire Department, retiring with the rank of Captain. He was also known for his work as a safety crew leader at dirt tracks across the Midwest.

Karen Lechner

Hurt's life companion of 28 years.

The Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial

A charitable organization that Hurt's family has requested memorial contributions be made to in his honor.

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What’s next

Hurt's family will hold a visitation on Sunday, March 22, 2026 and a funeral service on Monday, March 23, 2026 to honor his memory.

The takeaway

Billy Dean Hurt's passing is a loss felt deeply by the firefighting and racing communities he served, as he was known for his dedication, expertise, and ability to bring people together through his passions for service and camaraderie.