23-year Dearborn firefighter loses battle with cancer

Dearborn Fire Chief Joseph Murray and Dearborn Firefighters: "It is with heartfelt sorrow and regret that we announce the passing of Captain Jeremy Watkins, after a long and courageous battle with presumed occupational related cancer. Jeremy began his service with the Dearborn Fire Department on March 5th, 2002. He progressed through the ranks promoting to Firefighter 2 in 2006, Engineer in 2012, Lieutenant in 2017 and Captain in 2020. Jeremy was a proud Dearborn resident and believed it was an honor to serve the citizens of his hometown. Throughout his years of service Jeremy responded to many emergencies and positively impacted the lives of thousands of individuals, often on the worst day of their lives. Unfortunately, in 2024 Jeremy was forced to medically retire after receiving a presumed occupational related cancer diagnosis. Jeremy was never one to back down from a challenge and he took on cancer with the same bravery and courage that he had shown at the many fires he fought throughout his career. With his loving wife Christine at his side, along with the support of his brothers and sisters at the Dearborn Fire Department, Jeremy fought his cancer until the very end. Early this morning, Captain Watkins was called home, clearly heaven was in need of a hero. This morning Dearborn Firefighters escorted Jeremy from his home to the funeral home, where our firefighters will remain by his side until the completion of his services. Visitation and memorial arrangements will be announced in the near future."