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RIDGEWOOD, TN (WLAF)- “I always knew if Marty was here, he’d help us find a solution,” said Ridgewood Volunteer Fire Department Chief Dylan Roach. The chief shared the sad news Sunday morning of the passing of Assistant Fire Chief Marty Braden.
TOP PHOTO: Ridgewood Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Marty Braden and one of his dogs, Trooper”.
Braden, a veteran firefighter, had a career that spanned parts of four decades. He’d battled health challenges for a while, according to Roach.
Roach and Braden were also close friends and had known each other for years. “Marty was so proud of our fire department, and he was proud to help,” said Chief Roach
Braden was still active logistically. He helped with decisions on the evolution and development of the department.
“He’d always tell everyone he loved them at the end of each day at the station,” said Roach.
Braden was an active firefighter for Jacksboro Fire Department from 1997 to 2005, and he served as assistant chief during his time there. From 2023 until now, he had served as assistant fire chief for Ridgewood. “Marty will be added as a life time member to our department,” said Chief Roach.
“Marty would give you the shirt off his back. He was honored to serve and lead,” said Chief Roach.
Marty Braden was 49 years old.
(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-08/03/2026-6AM-PHOTOS SUBMITTED)