The State of Tennessee is bidding farewell to a seasoned fire safety veteran, as the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) revealed the retirement of its seasoned Assistant Commissioner for Fire Prevention, Gary Farley. Known for his decades-spanning commitment to firefighting and public safety, Farley has been at the helm of the Fire Prevention Division since 2018, overseeing an array of critical operations including the State Fire Marshal's Office and the Fire Service & Codes Enforcement Academy.
Farley's retirement was announced through a TDCI press release, where Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Carter Lawrence lauded him for his "dedicated public service". In the release, Lawrence said, "While we are sad to see him go, Gary’s impact on the Department and the entire State of Tennessee will be felt for years to come. I congratulate Gary on this milestone and wish him well as a retiree!" Reflecting on a career that began in 1984 with the Murfreesboro Fire Department, Farley steadily climbed the ranks to later becomes a pivotal figure within TDCI.
His storied career includes a tenure beginning in 2011 as the Director of the Department's Electrical, Residential, and Marina Inspections section before ascending to his assistant commissioner position. Having graduated from Oakland High School back in 1976, Farley's life has been a narrative of service, one that includes not only fighting fires but also engaging in local governance as a Rutherford County Commissioner from 1994 to 2014 and serving on various planning commissions.
Embracing the next chapter in his life, Farley looks forward to retirement adventures alongside his wife, Deborah, who recently retired as well. "My wife Deborah recently retired, and I believe it is the perfect time to join her in our golden years by spending our time seeing our friends, traveling the country, and watching our grandchildren grow up," Farley expressed. His parting words highlighted a tenure filled with support and accomplishments. " “I truly appreciate the support that I have received from everyone at the Department, as well as the General Assembly and the Governor’s Office, who have done more to help Tennessee firefighters and rescue squad members than at any other point in my lifetime. Serving in this Administration has been a pleasure, and the memories of achievements from this time will last forever. I have gained lifelong friendships that I value greatly, and those will remain for a lifetime," he told TDCI.
