Community Corner
5 First Responders Who Left A Lasting Legacy In Barrow
The service and commitment of these remarkable individuals continue to inspire today's firefighters, police officers and EMTs.
Barrow is fortunate to have dedicated first responders — police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and search and rescue teams —who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Their commitment carries forward the legacy of those who paved the way, demonstrating courage and dedication every day.
In partnership with T-Mobile, Patch is honoring the first responders who came before them—individuals whose impact continues to shape Barrow. Today, we’re highlighting five remarkable figures who left a lasting mark on our community.
1. Firefighter Ebony Crump (City of Winder Emergency Services)
Ebony Crump’s path to becoming a firefighter started with a life-changing experience during Hurricane Katrina. Trapped by the storm in her Louisiana home, she was rescued by first responders — an act of bravery that stuck with her and lit a spark. Years later, that spark led her to Lanier Technical College’s Fire Science Program, where she found both lifelong friends and a clear sense of purpose. In 2021, Crump made history as the City of Winder’s first female firefighter, turning a childhood moment of awe into a groundbreaking career. Her story continues to inspire others pursuing careers in public safety and service.
2. Firefighter/EMT Jeremy Little (Barrow County Emergency Services)
Jeremy Little’s career in emergency services began with a simple act of volunteering and grew into a decades-long commitment to helping others. After starting out at the Bethlehem Fire Station, he joined Barrow County Emergency Services full-time in 2002 and became known for his professionalism, strong work ethic and genuine concern for the people he served. In 2017, he was named Region 10’s EMT of the Year, recognized for his clinical skill, reliability in high-stress situations and dedication to those he served. His work has left a lasting impression on both the department and the Barrow County community.
3. Deputy Sheriff Ronald Eugene Bays (Barrow County Sheriff’s Office)
Deputy Ronald Eugene Bays served his community and country with quiet dedication, both as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a committed law enforcement officer in Barrow County. On January 23, 1992, while responding to an accident during a heavy rainstorm, his patrol car hydroplaned on Georgia Highway 8. It collided with another vehicle, tragically ending his watch at the age of 33. Bays had spent over a decade serving the people of Statham before joining the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, where his experience and commitment made a lasting impression. He is remembered not only for his years of service, but also for the loved ones he left behind — his wife and two sons — and for a legacy rooted in duty and honor.
4. Corporal Alexandria Hill (Winder Police Department)
When tragedy struck Apalachee High School on September 4, 2024, Corporal Alexandria Hill was one of the first to respond. In the face of chaos and unthinkable violence, Hill acted with courage, professionalism and calm under pressure — qualities that earned her the Distinguished Citizen Medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution. Alongside five fellow officers, Hill was honored for running toward danger to protect students and staff during the deadly school shooting. Her grounded presence in a moment of crisis offered a lifeline to those in fear, serving as a powerful reminder of the difference one prepared and compassionate officer can make.
5. Firefighter/EMT Timothy Shawn Watson (Barrow County Emergency Services)
Firefighter and EMT Tim Watson dedicated his life to service — first through the U.S. Army and National Guard, and later as a trusted member of Barrow County Emergency Services. He joined the department in 2015 and responded to countless emergencies with steady resolve and compassion. In June 2021, Watson was exposed to COVID-19 while caring for a patient on a call; after a courageous battle with the illness, he passed away on August 15 at the age of 48. Remembered for his selflessness and quiet strength, Watson leaves behind a legacy rooted in duty, sacrifice and a commitment to others.
Know a first responder — past or present — who’s making a difference in Barrow? We’d love to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.
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