Roger “Timmy” Miley
Firefighter
Firefighter Roger “Timmy” Miley (10/11/04 – 02/06/26)
Timmy’s journey began on October 11, 2004, and from the very start, he found a place in the hearts of everyone who knew him. His life was defined by the light he brought into every room and the lasting friendships he built along the way. From a young age, Timmy lived with a passion and energy that could have filled three lifetimes.
He was once a wide-eyed kid who kept his mom on her toes, and he grew into a strong, dependable young man—someone who never hesitated to step forward and lend a hand. Timmy embodied the love of his family, the strength of a hero, and an unwavering determination to make the world brighter for those around him.
He found joy in movement and challenge—whether on the lacrosse field, longboarding down an open road, or pushing himself through weightlifting and training. He thrived in the rhythm of effort and achievement, always chasing the next goal. From celebrating a Raiders state championship to pushing through the demanding work of clearing burn towers, Timmy embraced every challenge with courage and pride.
A proud graduate of Manatee High School in 2023, Timmy continued to follow his calling by completing the Firefighter Academy at MTC in February 2024. Later that year, he achieved his dream of serving his community as a firefighter with East Manatee Fire Rescue—a role that reflected his character, his bravery, and his deep desire to help others.
Timmy’s life, though far too short, was one of purpose, strength, and love. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the laughter he shared, and the example he set for all who were lucky enough to know him.
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Long-time East Manatee Fire Commissioner Robert Conley passed away unexpectantly on February 24, 2025. He served for over 32 years as a fire commissioner until stepping down at the conclusion of his 8th term in November 2024. The Board of Fire Commissioners had already chosen to dedicate their newest fire station to be dedicated in his honor upon its completion in late 2026.
Here is the Proclamation adopted by the Board honoring Conley in October.
A Proclamation of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District honoring Commissioner Robert M. Conley; providing for findings of fact; proclaiming station dedication; and providing for an effective date.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the East Manatee Fire Rescue District is a special district of the State of Florida, possessing certain governmental and proprietary powers pursuant to Chapter 191, Florida Statutes; and Chapters 2005-296 and 2021-257, Laws of Florida.
WHEREAS, these governmental and proprietary powers are propagated by a Board of Fire Commissioners elected by the residents of the District; and,
WHEREAS, Commissioner Robert M. Conley, was appointed by the Board of the Braden River Fire Control and Rescue District to finish the term of an open seat on November 12, 1990, and he served for 10 years, winning re-election twice.
WHEREAS, Commissioner Robert M. Conley chose not to seek election to a third term in November 2000; and,
WHEREAS, Commissioner Robert M. Conley, once again answered the call to duty when he was appointed by the Board of the Braden River Fire Control and Rescue District to finish the term of another open seat on May 19, 2002, and served for another 22 ½ years and was re-elected five (5) times; and,
WHEREAS, Commissioner Robert M. Conley has chosen not to seek an eighth election this November 2024; and,
WHEREAS, the Braden River Fire Control and Rescue District changed its name in 2005, pursuant to the Chapter 2005-296, Laws of Florida, to the East Manatee Fire Rescue District; and,
WHEREAS, during his tenure as a Commissioner with the Braden River/East Manatee Fire Rescue Districts, Commissioner Robert M. Conley served a total of 17 years as Chairman of the Board and he is the longest serving Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners; and,
WHEREAS, Commissioner Robert M. Conley’s total service to the Braden River/East Manatee Fire Rescue Districts is 32 ½ years and he is the longest serving Fire Commissioner in the 44½ year history of the District: and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District wishes to honor the tenure and service of Commissioner Robert M. Conley and all that he has done for the fire service, the District, and the citizens of East Manatee in a very meaningful way.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District, the following:
- The above recitals are hereby adopted as findings of fact.
- Commissioner Robert M. Conley’s tenure and service and all that he has done for the fire service, the District, and the citizens of East Manatee is very meaningful to the Board.
- This is the very first Proclamation ever given by the East Manatee Fire Rescue District Board of Fire Commissioners.
- Fire Station #9 at 2100 Bourneside Boulevard will be dedicated in honor of and to Commissioner Robert M. Conley upon its completion scheduled for 2026.
- The Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District declares Commissioner Robert M. Conley a Lifetime Member of the District.
- This Proclamation shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Passed and duly adopted with a quorum present and voting this 21st day of October 2024.
East Manatee Fire Rescue shows our respects to our fallen heroes, who put their lives on the line to better the community and ensure safety throughout our county.
Henry L. Sheffield
Fire Chief
Henry L. Sheffield
November 15, 1954 – December 12, 2019
It is with the heaviest of hearts and the deepest of regrets that we announce the passing of Henry Sheffield. Henry was a 47 year veteran of the Florida Fire Service, a friend to many, and a huge advocate for education as well as the fire service.
Henry liked to be challenged, so while attending Polk Community College he simultaneously was a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician (EMT) with the Highland City Volunteer Fire Department, now known as the Polk County Fire Rescue. Henry graduated college with an Associate’s Degree in Fire Service. He started working for the Polk County Property Appraisers’ Office, as well as working his way up the ladder in the fire department to eventually become Highland City Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief.
Henry wanted more and found a fire department looking to hire a Fire Chief. In 1983, Braden River Fire Control District, now known as East Manatee Fire Rescue Control, hired their first paid Fire Chief, Henry Sheffield. During his tenure with Braden River Fire Control District, he graduated from the Executive Fire Officers (EFO) program, received his Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administrations from Eckerd College, and other classes to enhance his knowledge.
He helped to form the first hazardous materials team and served as a team leader. He was also involved with the Manatee County Arson Task Force, Manatee County Fire Mutual Aid Association, the Managerial Association of Emergency Services, Manatee County Fire Chiefs’ Association, Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, International Association of Fire Chiefs’, National Fire Protection Association, Florida Forest Service “Red” Incident Management Team (IMT), Florida Emergency Management Division (IMT), and served as the Manatee County Fire Coordinator for the State Emergency Response Plan. He received many local and state awards as well as many recognition during his career at Braden River, which is now known as East Manatee Fire Rescue Control.
In 2007, Henry accepted a position on staff at the Florida State Fire College (FSFC) in Ocala, Florida and retired from East Manatee Fire Rescue after 24 years of service. In 2014, he returned to Manatee County and worked for the Manatee County School District as the Coordinator of the Fire Academy at Manatee Technical College (East Campus), until his passing.
Henry had an unwavering passion for what he did and a heart of gold. He didn’t join the fire department for recognition or money, but joined it because he loved to help others and wanted to make a difference. He taught so many people how to be a team member, what honor, loyalty, and respect meant. He communicated how firefighters have an extended family with people they work with and that the brotherhood/sisterhood means more than most people think. He taught customer service by doing the right thing and showing firefighters what customer service looked like.
Henry was a special person, one who could talk to you for hours about anything. He founded so many positive programs and displayed so many examples for being a leader, a boss, and a friend. He set the tone for our agency with traditions which are still honored today. Henry was a man with a love for the fire department and all that it encompasses. A man who was kind and loved to help. Chief Henry Sheffield, you will be greatly missed by many!!
See links below:
Edward M. Wadlinger III
Firefighter
Firefighter Edward M. Wadlinger (1/13/75 – 11/28/17)
Ed was hired at the East Manatee Fire Rescue District in October 2005. He advanced up the steps to Firefighter III and had completed the Supervisor Proficiency Program which allowed him to be in charge of a Fire Station in the absence of an officer.
Ed contracted cancer and in October 2015 retired from East Manatee after 10 years of service.
Ed succumbed to his illness November 28, 2017, as he approached the age of 43.
East Manatee has since taken great steps in cancer prevention and awareness with all employees. Using Ed’s nickname, Wad, the District has created an acronym to help remind Firefighters on things they can do at the fire scene to minimize the risk of occupational cancer.
Every Firefighters helmet has a sticker with this acronym printed on it honoring Ed and serving as a constant reminder in the war against Firefighter Cancer.
Click here to read the Herald Tribune – Edward M. Wadlinger III
RICHARD KIRBY
Reverend
East Manatee and Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Districts are mourning the loss of Division Chief Richard E. Kirby who passed away on February 26, 2015. He was 86 years old. He was the current Chaplain of both the East Manatee and Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Districts in Bradenton Florida. He began his volunteer fire service career in 1982 with the Samoset Fire Department as a Fire Commissioner and Chaplain. In 1987, Rev. Kirby became the Chaplain at East Manatee and in 1990 became the Chaplain at Southern Manatee. In 2006, East Manatee Fire Rescue dedicated Station 5 in his honor to serve as a lasting tribute to such an admirable, dedicated, and respected man. He was also the Pastor of the Open Bible Tabernacle in Samoset until his retirement in 2008. Rev. Kirby will truly be missed. We know that he will continue to walk by our sides and live in our hearts!!
RUSSELL J. RANDOLPH
Fire Chief
Before coming to East Manatee, Russell J. Randolph began his firefighting career with the Manhasset-Lakeville Volunteer Fire Department Rescue Company 3 on Long Island, NY in 1979. In 1984, he moved to Bradenton, FL to work as a Dispatcher in the Manatee County Department of Public Safety. He then joined the Braden River Volunteer Fire Department (East Manatee Fire Rescue). Russell was promoted to Lieutenant in 1985 and made a Life Member of the Braden River Firefighters (East Manatee Benevolent) Association in 1990. Russell left East Manatee in 1990 when he was hired as a full-time Firefighter with the neighboring Southern Manatee Fire Rescue District. He worked on B Shift until he retired in 2001. Russell was a Forensic Photographer with the Manatee County Arson Task Force from 1985 to 1991. In 2011 he joined the volunteer Fire Department in Trailer Estates and became the Fire Chief in 2015. Russell was a member of the Manatee County Medical Reserve Corp, Suncoast FOOLS, Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Manhasset-Lakeville Firefighters Benevolent Association, and the East Manatee Firefighters Benevolent Association. Russell became ill July 2016. He passed from this earth at 20:07 hours on Friday, October 14, 2016 at the age of 55.