Firefighter retires after 40 years

After an almost 40-year career with the Madison Fire Department, Battalion Chief John Pitts looks forward to spending time with his family.

“It has been a rollercoaster ride of mixed emotions,” Pitts said. “It is not something I was tired of doing, but it was time for me to be home more.”

Pitts’ last day was Sept. 26. Following his final shift, the Madison Fire Department held a reception for him at Station 2 on Old Canton Road. 

Those in attendance included his wife, Kristine Pitts, and a number of friends from his long career fighting fires, including all three of the Madison fire chiefs he served under, Harry Ables, Tom Lariviere, and current Chief Derick Layton.

“I was very blessed to have volunteered and worked with some very awesome people,” Pitts said.

In retirement, Pitts looks forward to spending time with and their animals as well as spend more time on their more than 20-year business selling Firehouse Moustache Wax, the secret ingredient to his iconic mustache.

He started with the fire department in 1985, two years before he grew his mustache. During his time, he has seen quite a few changes. In his early days, the trucks were still designed so that firefighters would hang on to the back when they sped to a call.

“I was blessed to sign up at a time when they still rode holding onto the back on the tail board,” Pitts said.

Pitts remembers a city of Madison that was yet to really start growing. When he signed up Highway 51 was a two-lane road and the Trustmark at Main Street and Highway 51 was in a mobile home.

Since the city switched to its digital reporting system in 2007, Pitts has responded to just under 3,000 calls for service, Matt Smith with the city of Madison said.. 

“His leadership as Battalion Chief at Station 2 on Old Canton Road has been instrumental in protecting the citizens of Madison,” Smith said.

In addition to his on-the-ground service, Pitts has achieved numerous certifications, including EMT, Hazmat Technician, and Fire Officer, exemplifying his dedication to continuous learning. 

In recognition of his contributions, the city of Madison declared September 26, 2024, as Battalion Chief John Pitts Day, honoring his remarkable career and wishing him a fulfilling retirement.

Firefighting was the family business. His late father, Paul Pitts, spent the last 18 years of his 43-year career with the Madison Fire Department. His brother, Bo Pitts, also spent some time with the department as a volunteer.

“Its funny,” his mother, Mamie, said recently. “This is the first time since 1962 I have not been part of a fire station.”

He said, “I reckon it stops with me.”