In his final action as Oxford fire chief, Gary Sparks made the traditional final call to  9-1-1 dispatch notifying all in the area public safety network that he is going off duty.

Sparks was joined by many of the Oxford Fire Department team and several city employee colleagues on Friday, January 30, 2025, at the Dewey D. Webb Fire Station #1, as he picked up the radio and initiated contact with local dispatchers in a call that was broadcast to the entire Calhoun County 9-1-1 public safety network of first responders.

“Oxford 401 to dispatch,” Sparks began after hitting the call button on the radio.

“I want to thank you all – the dispatchers – for always being there for us and taking care of us. You are the first line of defense,” Sparks said with emotions beginning to set in.

“To each of the Oxford firefighters, thank you for the job that you do,” he said. “You have made my life easier. I know Ben [Stewart] is going to do a wonderful job as chief. And to the other city officials and employees, thank you all. I know the last five years have been tough, and I couldn’t have gotten through it without you. This is 401 signing off for the last time.”

In a surprise response, the next voice over the radio was Sparks’ granddaughter, Kenna, with the greeting: “Paw Paw, I love you.”

The dispatcher on call then paid tribute to the retiring fire chief.

“Chief Sparks, after years of dedicated service, leadership, and commitment to the citizens of Oxford, this concludes your final call,” the dispatcher said. “Chief Sparks has served his department and community with honor, integrity, and pride for 43 years. His leadership, mentorship, and dedication have left a lasting legacy within the Oxford Fire Department. Chief Sparks, thank you for your service. You are clear. Enjoy your retirement.”

“We are going to miss you, and we appreciate you,” said incoming Oxford Fire Chief Ben Stewart, who officially took over the post on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Stewart told Sparks “the guys went in and got a little something for you,” then presented Sparks with a wood carving bearing prominent dates and photographs from his time in the fire service.

“This has been bittersweet, but it’s time,” Sparks said to the firefighters. “I know you all will move forward and everything will be great,” Sparks said. “Just know, if you ever need me, I’m just a phone call away. I hired each one of you, and you were hired for a reason. We thought you were the best candidate to work for the city of Oxford. You have great officers who will lead you, and you’re great firefighters. I am very, very proud of each and every one of you. Just keep moving forward.”

Sparks will continue to serve on the Calhoun County 9-1-1 Board of Commissioners as he maintains the title of Oxford Fire Chief Emeritus and awaits the arrival of the department’s newest mobile unit, which will bear his name.