Reems Creek Fire Chief Chris Dorsey Remembered by Community
Local first responders and the community are mourning the loss of Reems Creek Fire Department Chief Chris Dorsey, who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 24, at the age of 45. A funeral procession was held on March 25, 2026, from Winston-Salem to Groce Funeral Home in Asheville, honoring Chief Dorsey’s dedication and service.
A Career Dedicated to Service
Before becoming Reems Creek Fire Chief, Chris Dorsey served with Buncombe County Emergency Services, Woodfin Fire Department, Weaverville Fire Department, and the NC Urban Search and Rescue Task Force. His commitment to serving others spanned multiple departments and roles within the region.
Honoring a Colleague and Friend
The North Carolina Highway Patrol led the funeral procession, and emergency responders lined overpasses along Interstate 40 and Interstate 240 to pay their respects. At the Montford overpass, a flag was draped as a final tribute.
Woodfin Fire Department Fire Chief Jeff Angel described Dorsey as someone who “had helped countless paramedics, countless firefighters, and throughout the county and beyond.” Angel, who knew Dorsey since childhood as his father was the assistant fire chief at Woodfin Fire Department, shared a story of Dorsey’s lifelong passion for firefighting, often riding his bicycle to emergency scenes.
Angel further emphasized Dorsey’s impact, stating, “We’re going to miss him. He was a good friend. He was a good asset to all the communities that he served, but he was, he was mostly a good dad to his kids and a good brother to his brothers.”
A Mentor and Inspiration
Those who worked with Chief Dorsey remember him as an amazing mentor with a great sense of humor. Colleagues noted his ability to bring positivity even during difficult times, leaving a significant void in the community and Buncombe County as a whole.
Buncombe County government released a statement honoring Chief Dorsey’s contributions.