Retired Henrico County Division of Fire assistant chief dies after cancer battle

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A retired assistant chief of the Henrico County Division of Fire has died after nearly four decades of service, fire officials confirmed.

Herman "Rocky" Hudson, a retired Henrico Fire assistant chief and dozer operator for the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF), died after a "[recurring] battle with cancer" on Thursday, Dec. 18, according to a spokesperson with the fire department.

(Photo Courtesy of Henrico Fire)

(Photo Courtesy of Henrico Fire)

Hudson, who retired as an operational shift commander, began his journey with the Henrico County Division of Fire as a junior cadet. He was hired as a full-time career member on July 20, 1977.

According to a spokesperson from DOF, Hudson served a brief stint as one of the regional Firewise specialists, providing the department with training expertise as an instructor in brush truck and dozer operations.

During this period, Hudson has been instrumental in the implementation of ICS in Henrico County, DOF officials said.

Hudson retired on May 19, 2013, after 35 years of service with Henrico Fire.

“Rocky was known for his love of family, his faith and his commitment to the department. He was a leader and teacher who exemplified the highest traditions of our division everyday while serving the citizens of this county," said the Henrico County Division of Fire Chief Jackson Baynard. "Despite retiring more than a decade ago, Rocky was still very much a presence among our current staff and retirees. I am confident that the many experiences and interactions our fire personnel had with Rocky will continue to be shared in our fire stations for years to come. His loss leaves an enormous void for all of us.”