Nichols Hills Firemen Stand Watch Until Chief's Funeral

Lisa Monahan, News 9

NICHOLS HILLS, Oklahoma -- Members of the Nichols Hills Fire Department are grieving the loss of Chief Keith Bryan.  Bryan was murdered in his Mustang home Tuesday.

He worked for Nichols Hills for 31 years and spent 22 years as chief.

The firefighters who worked side by side with Bryan said they are more like a family than co-workers.

All of the 14 firefighters with the department are manning the firehouse as a tribute to Chief Keith Bryan's dedication to his job and the community.

Deputy Chief Terry Hamilton said Bryan was a wonderful firefighter and a dear friend, "he loved to make them laugh, along with helping people but he had a great sense of humor."

Deputy Chief Terry Hamilton believes the loss will be felt throughout the community because Bryan brought so much experience and compassion to the community.

Throughout the day, those words shown true as residents and other firefighters brought flowers, food, and words of gratitude.

Paige Brown was shocked to hear what happened and felt compelled to help.

"It just takes your breath away that something so tragic would happen to somebody so close," she said.

Brown and her mother, Dottie Lammerts, brought sandwiches and snacks for the firefighters.

"I hope it makes them feel a little better," Brown said. 

The firefighters are thankful for the support and say they plan to stay on duty until Chief Bryan's funeral. Funeral arrangement have not yet been announced.