Picayune Fire Chief Pat Weaver celebrated his retirement after 28 years of service to the city. Mayor Jim Luke and City Manager Harvey Miller presented Weaver with a plaque recognizing his dedication and leadership.

The plaque read, “In appreciation and gratitude for your dedication and outstanding service to the City of Picayune during your 28 years and four months with the fire department, your leadership as fire chief, and commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our community. Your hard work and contributions will always be remembered.”

“I’d like to present this on behalf of myself as mayor, our city council, and all the staff and employees of the City of Picayune,” Luke said.

Weaver expressed gratitude for his years of service and the people he worked alongside. “I appreciate working with all the firemen—they’re a great group of guys,” Weaver said. “It’s been a wonderful time, and it all happened overnight.
I’m looking forward to spending time with my wife, working on the farm, and restoring a CJ-5.”

The event included a speech from Fire Marshal Josh Abercrombie, who reflected on Weaver’s impact on the department and the community. Abercrombie noted Weaver’s unwavering character and extensive knowledge, describing him as a “quiet, humble man” whose leadership set a strong foundation for the department.

“Chief Weaver’s presence and guidance will be missed,” Abercrombie said. “His Christian values and the respect he commands at the firehouse and beyond are a testament to his character. Although we’ll miss him, the foundation he set will remain with us.”

Weaver began his career in August 1996 at the age of 37. He quickly became a pivotal department member, graduating as valedictorian from Firefighter 1001 training in 1997 and earning the title Firefighter of the Year in 1999. Throughout his career, Weaver achieved milestones, including completing the Mississippi Smoke Diver Program, serving as Fire Marshal, and eventually leading the department as Chief.

Known for his deep faith, Weaver often started his days by studying scripture and offering prayers and counsel to colleagues and citizens alike.

During the Christmas party, Abercrombie presented Weaver with a retirement gift from the department: a pistol inscribed with a verse from Proverbs 17:27, symbolizing his knowledge and calm demeanor. “Your words may be few, but when you speak, they carry power and inspire others to be better,” Abercrombie said.