Nov. 01--Rudy Raynes caught the firefighting bug more than 50 years ago -- a passion that would lead him to a long career and, on Tuesday, retirement as an assistant state fire marshal.
More than two dozen coworkers attended his retirement party at the fire marshal's office in Charleston. Some fought back tears, and everyone shared a smile.
"We just want to tell him thanks for all the good years; for his insight, his leadership and the contribution that he's made to this agency," said Ken Tyree, the state fire marshal.
Raynes started at the office 26 years ago, inspecting buildings and reviewing construction plans. He was concerned with the safety of schools, businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, universities and regional jails.
The job became his life. No matter the building, he said it became second nature to inspect the places he visits each day. Raynes, 66, is retiring with the title of senior inspector and assistant fire marshal III.
"It's hard to put all this behind, because you basically do it 24 hours a day," he said.
According to a news release, Raynes was instrumental in bringing a fire service fee to Putnam County, where he also helped to introduce a 911 service and a radio system for emergency responders.
His father, Clyde, served as a firefighter in Eleanor for nearly three decades. Clyde Raines became the city's first fire chief in 1961, and Rudy Raynes joined at the age of 16.
Raynes then joined a fire department in Nitro, later bringing his knowledge of fire safety to energy and chemical companies.
And he always found time for new pursuits. Raynes worked as a councilman in Eleanor for two years. He officiated sports off all kinds, and he worked as a paramedic and ambulance driver in Putnam County.
Raynes' favorite foods lined the fire marshal's office on Tuesday. He enjoys a Twinkie for lunch each day, and he has the reputation of being a hot dog connoisseur.
During his short speech at the retirement party, Raynes shifted the attention and praise to his co-workers.
"We've made a lot of big progress here at the state fire marshal's office for the last 26 years," he said. "I wish all of you continued success in whatever you do."
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