by Shawn Nowlin
There are many unsung heroes throughout the City of Roanoke.
While he’s never been the type to seek the spotlight, it’s important that honorable individuals like Rawleigh Quarles Sr. are given their flowers while they are still alive.
Hired by the Roanoke City Fire Department in 1962 as one of two Black firefighters, Quarles went on to serve as a lieutenant and fire marshal before making history in 1989 as the city’s first Black fire chief. Six years later, he officially retired from the profession.
Throughout his impactful career, Quarles earned a reputation for being an effective leader. His commitment to excellence set a standard for those around him.
Dreaming of becoming a firefighter is something that Quarles regularly did growing up. As he explained, “I am the youngest of eight living siblings. Three died during childbirth. I had a great upbringing. Seeing no firefighters of color as a kid sparked my interest to join that profession one day.”
When he was denied a promotion because a job description was adjusted solely to exclude him, Quarles filed a discrimination lawsuit. That decision led to an out-of-court settlement and helped clear a path for future minorities.
On May 29, family, friends and former colleagues were all present at the Fire Station on Orange Ave. to celebrate Quarles who participated in a ceremony that culminated in a community room being dedicated in his honor.
These include City Manager Valmarie Turner, Fire Chief David Hoback and Mayor Joe Cobb who all spoke about Quarles’ passion for the city and community.
“It’s truly an honor that people think enough of me to do this. Whether people come into the halls of this station or not, I’m sure it’s going to serve as an inspiration. Compared to when my career began, the city has made tremendous strides. This is truly humbling,” Quarles said.
Instrumental in the affair happening were the efforts of former city councilwoman Stephanie Moon Reynolds. “All of these years that he’s been retired, I realized that no one has ever done anything to recognize his service to the city. It was important that the resolution happened before my council term ended,” she said.
Continuing, she added, “It is important for the Black community to know about the sacrifices that have been made, not only by Rawleigh Quarles, but other prominent Blacks, living and deceased.”
Quarles’ book, titled “Climbing the Ladder of Success: A Firefighter’s Journey to the Top,” can be purchased on Amazon. It’s not lost on Quarles that since he retired, there hasn’t been a Black fire chief since.
For more than two decades, Quarles served as the Senior Pastor of Staunton Avenue Church of God.
Throughout every chapter of Quarles’ life since his days at Lucy Addison High School, his soulmate, Barbara, has been by his side. This year, the couple will celebrate their 63rd wedding anniversary.
