By David Robert | Published: June 29, 2026 | Source: public Facebook post

SUWANEE, GEORGIA — Tim Lister, a veteran firefighter, Driver/Engineer, and highly respected fire service instructor whose mentorship shaped the careers of countless emergency responders has died.

Lister’s passing was confirmed through numerous public tributes shared by colleagues, former students, and members of the fire service. While his family has not yet released details regarding the cause of death or funeral arrangements, the overwhelming response from those who served alongside him reflects the extraordinary influence he had throughout his career.

For many firefighters, Tim Lister was more than an instructor—he was a trusted mentor whose leadership extended far beyond the classroom and the fireground.

A Career Built on Leadership, Service, and Mentorship

A resident of Suwanee, Georgia, Tim Lister devoted his professional life to protecting his community while preparing the next generation of firefighters for the demands of emergency service.

Known for his role as a Driver/Engineer and instructor within the Gwinnett County fire service, Lister earned widespread respect for combining technical excellence with genuine compassion. Colleagues consistently described him as a leader who demanded professionalism while encouraging confidence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

His influence reached hundreds of firefighters who entered the profession under his guidance, many of whom have since shared deeply personal memories of the lessons he imparted.

Former firefighter trainee It’s Goth Dad recalled meeting Lister during the fire academy, where Lister served as one of his primary instructors.

“When I went through the fire academy, I was the class leader and I worked directly under the guidance and instruction of Engineer Tim Lister. I was so impressed with him as he was everything that a mentor should be—stern but fair, strong but compassionate, and always positive and full of humor.”

The tribute continued by explaining that Lister’s mentorship confirmed he had chosen the right career after leaving military service.

“Being around Tim made me realize that I had made the right decision and those were people who I was going to trust going into burning buildings with. Thanks for everything Tim. So many people are going to miss you dearly.”

Colleagues Remember a Firefighter Who Made Everyone Better

As news of Lister’s passing spread, firefighters from across the department reflected on the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.

Jordan Lee Weldon described Lister as “one of the very best of us,” using the moment to remind fellow first responders to value family, friendships, and every opportunity to serve.

Referencing Lister’s Christian faith, Weldon wrote:

“Thank you, Tim, for your service to this world, for your unwavering positive attitude, and for always encouraging us to become the best versions of ourselves. I’ll see you again, brother.”

Longtime colleague and instructor Web Marshall also emphasized Lister’s commitment to firefighter education and professional development.

“Tim was one of my instructors when I came into Gwinnett and we became friends and taught together a good bit. Tim was constantly grinding to help others achieve their potential. We are all better for having him as an influence, a friend and a motivator to improve.”

Marshall noted that Lister’s impact would continue through the firefighters he trained, saying that his influence had made both individuals and the department stronger.

Richard Johnson echoed those sentiments, remembering Lister as both a close friend and an exceptional firefighter.

“He touched so many lives and made the fire family as a whole better.”

A Lasting Legacy in the Fire Service

Within the fire service, experienced instructors often leave an impact that extends well beyond emergency responses. Their leadership shapes decision-making, builds confidence under pressure, and helps establish the culture of future departments.

Based on the tributes shared by those who knew him best, Tim Lister exemplified those qualities throughout his career. Friends repeatedly described him as approachable, encouraging, disciplined, and optimistic—a mentor who invested his time in helping others succeed both professionally and personally.

The consistency of these tributes offers a clear picture of the respect he earned over many years of dedicated public service.

Although many firefighters are remembered for the emergencies they respond to, colleagues say Tim Lister will be equally remembered for the lives he influenced long after training exercises ended.

Funeral and Memorial Information

As of publication, Tim Lister’s family has not publicly announced funeral or memorial service arrangements.

This article will be updated should the family release additional information regarding visitation, memorial services, charitable donations, or other official announcements.

Honoring Tim Lister’s Memory

The loss of Tim Lister has been felt throughout Georgia’s firefighting community, where colleagues continue to share stories of his generosity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to developing others.

His legacy lives on through the firefighters he mentored, the communities they continue to protect, and the values of integrity, service, humility, and leadership that he modeled every day.

For many who had the privilege of working beside him, Tim Lister will be remembered not only as an outstanding firefighter but as the kind of mentor whose influence will endure for generations.

Editorial Note: This obituary has been prepared using verified public tributes shared by colleagues, former students, and members of the Gwinnett County fire service community. At the time of publication, Tim Lister’s family has not publicly confirmed his age, cause of death, or funeral arrangements. This article will be updated should official information become available.