St. Johns County Announces the Passing of Former Fire Chief Bobby Hall

• 16 July 2025
• Category: SJC News
• Tags: 2025 Fire Rescue

Chief Hall was one of the original leaders of today’s St. Johns County Fire Rescue as it evolved from a volunteer operation to a full-time County department.

St. Johns County has announced the passing of Bobby Hall, former Fire Chief of St. Johns County Fire Rescue (SJCFR). Hall was a respected leader and lifelong public servant whose selfless contributions shaped the foundation of SJCFR from a volunteer operation to a full-time County department. He served as SJCFR Fire Chief from 2001 to 2011.

“Chief Hall was a true visionary whose leadership fundamentally transformed Fire Rescue in St. Johns County,” said St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews. “He played a pivotal role in guiding the department from a volunteer-based service to the professional, full-service agency it is today. His legacy of innovation, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire those who serve. He will be deeply missed, and his memory will remain a guiding light in the field of public safety.”

Chief Hall began his remarkable career as an EMT and went on to serve more than 35 years, retiring in 2011 as Fire Chief of SJCFR. He was one of the first Paramedics in the State of Florida. He rose through the ranks serving in many different roles and becoming SJCFR Fire Chief in 2001. He directed one of the fastest-growing departments in Florida. His guidance transformed SJCFR from a volunteer fire service with separate EMS functions into the professional, all-hazards emergency response agency it is today.

During his time as Chief Hall, SJCFR opened multiple new fire stations in the fastest growing sections of the county in addition to fully staffing an additional 14 pre-existing volunteer stations with career personnel. SJCFR hired over 150 operations personnel and associated fire truck, ambulance, and equipment purchases with this expansion.

“Chief Hall’s vision, dedication, and commitment to public service left a lasting legacy not only on this department but on the entire St. Johns County community,” said SJCFR Fire Chief Sean McGee. “It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to lead the department that he helped build. He will definitely be missed”.