Chief Paul F. Price Sr. was born in Austin, Texas, on November 19, 1952, to James and Ruth Price. Paul joined the Audubon Fire Department (formerly Defender Fire Department) as a junior firefighter while in Audubon High School in 1970. Chief Paul Price Sr. had many careers, but ultimately attained his lifelong goal of becoming a paid firefighter when he became a member of the Camden Fire Department in 1977. Paul loved his job, and it showed in everything he did throughout his career. Paul climbed his way through the ranks in the Camden Fire Department and ultimately attained the position of deputy chief.

Chief Price was always involved in emergency management and was especially known for his grant writing abilities. After over 30 years of service to Camden Fire Department, Chief Price retired in 2009. Although Paul retired from Camden Fire Department, he was a lifelong firefighter who continued to be a member of the Audubon Fire Department and The Tri-State Maritime Safety Association (Maritime Incident Response Team) until his untimely passing.

Paul was dedicated and giving, not only to his community, but to the fire community as a whole. Chief Price was a selfless man who was always willing to give his time and volunteered in numerous organizations. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Paul was instantly drawn to his joyful spirit and quickly learned of his dedication to bettering the fire service through education and mentoring. Paul believed that you were never done learning and attended classes at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, every chance he had.

Paul knew that knowledge and training were the only things that would protect you in a dangerous situation, and because of this he always wanted to share his experiences with the younger members of the department. Throughout his life, Chief Price mentored numerous young firefighters. One of his favorite activities with the fire service was his yearly involvement in the Hampton Roads Maritime Firefighting School at the Norfolk Fire Training Center in Virginia. Paul thoroughly enjoyed teaching at this event and often spoke of the hands-on activities that he helped run. Paul was a firm believer in the fire service and tried to promote the bond of brotherhood in every firefighter he met.

Paul was a dedicated and loving husband of 38 years to his wife, Patricia. His children, Paul Jr. and Susannah, learned immeasurable lessons through his love and guidance. Paul was a man with a big heart, a man who would do whatever he could to help anyone he came in contact with.

Paul’s life will never be forgotten, as he lives on in all of the lives that he has touched.