One of Autryville’s own, a man who served the town as a commissioner and helped build the fire department up from its foundation some four decades ago, was honored upon his passing this week.
Jonathan “Jakie” Faircloth, 61, died Monday at the age of 61. He was laid to rest in Autryville Cemetery following a funeral at Autryville Baptist Church on Wednesday. When news of his death circulated Monday, about 70 firefighters and community members gathered at the station to lower the flag as a tribute to Faircloth, whose fire helmet and turnout gear were placed at the base of the pole.
“Jakie Faircloth is the definition of a leader,” Autryville Fire Chief Andrew Hawkins said. “He did not lead with belittlement or intimidation. He received your respect due to how he treated each and every person he met.”