The first African American to accept a longevity retirement from the City of Tampa Fire Department died last Wednesday. Mr. Lorenzo “Cookie” Holmes was 66.

Mr. Holmes served as a Driver/Engineer and Inspector for the Loss Management Office, (formerly known as Fire Prevention Bureau), and was assigned to Engine 10.

In 1990, after more than 20 years of service, Mr. Holmes retired from the fire department. He became the first African American to receive a longevity retirement from the department.

Funeral services for Mr. Holmes will take place on Friday, March 4th, 11 a.m., at Mount Calvary Seventh Day Adventist Church. Harmon Funeral Home is in charge of handling arrangements.