Gulfport Fire Department Mourns the Sudden Loss of Beloved Engineer Justin Herring, Remembered for His Bravery, Dedication, and Compassionate Service to the Community

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the City of Gulfport and the Gulfport Fire Department announce the untimely passing of one of their most dedicated and beloved members, Engineer Justin Herring. A respected firefighter, devoted public servant, and cherished member of the Gulfport community, Herring passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering service.

Engineer Herring served with the Gulfport Fire Department for several years, earning the admiration and respect of his fellow firefighters, department leadership, and the community he swore to protect. Known for his selflessness, steady presence, and quiet strength, Herring was the kind of firefighter who never hesitated to put others first—both on and off duty.

In a statement released by the department, Chief Alan Wooten expressed the collective grief felt by the firefighting family:

“Engineer Justin Herring embodied the very best of what it means to be a public servant. His dedication, bravery, and compassion touched the lives of everyone who worked alongside him. Losing Justin is a tremendous blow to all of us. He was more than a colleague—he was a brother. We are keeping his family, his friends, and our department in our prayers as we mourn this unimaginable loss.”

A Life of Service and Impact

Born and raised in Mississippi, Justin Herring pursued a career in public safety out of a deep desire to help others. Friends and family remember him as someone who was naturally drawn to protect and support those in need. He joined the Gulfport Fire Department as a young man and rose through the ranks, eventually earning the title of Engineer—a position that came with additional responsibility, leadership, and trust.

Colleagues say he was the kind of firefighter who could always be relied upon in the toughest situations. Whether responding to structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, or medical emergencies, Justin was calm under pressure and a source of reassurance for both teammates and civilians.

“He didn’t just do the job—he did it with heart,” said longtime friend and fellow firefighter Michael Benton. “He showed up every single day ready to serve. The way he carried himself inspired all of us.”

A Community in Mourning

News of Justin Herring’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the Gulf Coast. Community members have taken to social media to share their condolences, many recalling moments of kindness and heroism. A growing memorial of flowers and messages has been set up outside Station 7, where Herring was last assigned.

Mayor Billy Hewes also issued a statement, saying:

“The City of Gulfport mourns the loss of Engineer Justin Herring, a hero in every sense of the word. He devoted his life to the safety and well-being of our citizens, and his absence leaves an irreplaceable hole in our hearts. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and all who knew and loved him.”

Memorial Services

To honor Justin’s life and legacy, services will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at St. James Catholic Church, located at 366 Cowan Rd, Gulfport.

• Visitation: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Prayer Service: 12:00 p.m. inside the church
• Procession: Following the service, a procession will depart the church en route to Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, where final respects will be paid.

Firefighters from across the region are expected to attend in uniform, and a formal honor guard will be present to salute their fallen brother.

Those wishing to view his full obituary or share a message with the family can do so at: https://www.riemannfamily.com/obituaries/justin-herring

A Legacy That Lives On

Engineer Justin Herring leaves behind not only his fire department family, but a loving personal family as well—his parents, siblings, close friends, and countless lives touched by his service. While the pain of his loss is immeasurable, so too is the legacy he leaves behind.

“In a world that so often takes courage and kindness for granted, Justin stood tall,” said Gulfport Fire Chaplain Rev. David Walsh. “He gave all of us something to aspire to. His life was a testament to love, duty, and grace under fire.”

As the Gulfport Fire Department drapes its stations in black bunting and prepares to say goodbye to one of its finest, the entire community stands with them—united in grief, gratitude, and remembrance.

Rest in peace, Engineer Justin Herring. Your watch is over, but your spirit will carry on in every life you touched and every firefighter who follows in your footsteps.