Former Rome-Floyd Fire Chief Gordon Henderson Remembered for Lifetime of Service
ROME — The City of Rome and the Rome-Floyd Fire Department are mourning the loss of former Fire Chief Gordon Henderson, a respected leader, mentor, and lifelong public servant.
A native of the Model community, Henderson began his career with the Rome-Floyd Fire Department on November 2, 1975. Over the years, he rose steadily through the ranks, serving as Captain at Station One before being promoted to Deputy Chief in 1988. In 2008, he succeeded Chief Bobby McKenszie and went on to lead the department until his retirement on January 1, 2015.
Even after retirement, Henderson remained dedicated to the fire service. From 2015 to 2022, he served as head of the Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council, guiding statewide training and certification programs.
Current Rome-Floyd Fire Chief Troy Brock called Henderson a mentor to many within the department. “He was so instrumental to many of us currently in fire administration,” Brock said, noting that Deputy Chief Brad Roberson shared the same sentiment.
Retired Fire Captain David Kay credited Henderson with strengthening fire education and training programs during his tenure—an effort that made him a natural fit to later lead Georgia’s training council.
Retired Battalion Chief Phil Langston remembered Henderson’s leadership in securing the land where the Firefighters Memorial now stands on Sixth Avenue beside City Hall. The site, once home to Engine Company Seven, now serves as a lasting tribute to Rome’s fire service community, thanks in part to Henderson’s vision.
Henderson leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, service, and unwavering dedication to his community and profession.
The City of Rome has extended its deepest condolences to the Henderson family, friends, and all who served alongside him.
From a release sent to WEIS from the city of Rome:
In Memory of Former Rome-Floyd Fire Chief Gordon Henderson
With deep sorrow, the City of Rome and the Rome-Floyd Fire Department mourn the passing of former Fire Chief Gordon Henderson, a respected leader, mentor, and lifelong public servant.
A native of the Model community, Chief Henderson began his career with the Rome-Floyd Fire Department on November 2, 1975. He steadily rose through the ranks, serving as Captain at Station One before being promoted to Deputy Chief in 1988. In 2008, he succeeded Chief Bobby McKenszie and led the department with distinction until his retirement on January 1, 2015.
Following his retirement, Chief Henderson continued to serve the fire profession statewide as head of the Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council, a role he held from 2015 to 2022.
“He was so instrumental to many of us currently in fire administration,” said current Rome-Floyd Fire Chief Troy Brock. “Deputy Chief Brad Roberson would tell you the same thing.”
Retired Fire Captain David Kay credited Chief Henderson with advancing fire education and training programs during his tenure—efforts that made him a natural choice to lead the state’s training unit.
Retired Battalion Chief Phil Langston also recalled Chief Henderson’s key role in securing the land where the Firefighters Memorial now stands on Sixth Avenue beside City Hall. Once home to Engine Company Seven, the property now serves as a lasting tribute to Rome’s fire service community, thanks in part to his leadership.
Chief Henderson leaves behind a legacy defined by service, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his community and profession. His impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
The City of Rome extends its deepest condolences to the Henderson family, friends, and all who served alongside him.
