Roanoke Rapids Fire Department battalion chief dies after cancer battle

The battalion chief of the Roanoke Rapids Fire Department died Tuesday after a battle with cancer, according to the department.

Chief Kevin Hawkins was employed at the department on Sept. 27, 1999, and grew into a well-respected leader.

"He was a wonderful leader and mentor to all of us at the fire department," the post read. "Chief Hawkins was the kind of person who was a joy to be around. He would always put a smile on your face with his positive outlook on everything in life. We, as a department, are better just for having him in our lives."

The post went on to describe how Hawkins would cook an entire meal for his coworkers and their families when he worked holidays "to show his men the importance of family."

"Chief Hawkins leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, in both his personal life and his professional life, but his faith in the Lord ensures us all that he is in a better place," the post read.