After his unexpected passing, the life of La Vergne Fire Chief Richard "Ricky" McCormick will be celebrated on Wednesday.

Just 49 years old, McCormick died Thursday after having knee surgery.

His burial at Mapleview Cemetery with full honors will follow 10 AM public services Wednesday at Highland Heights Church of Christ, 785 S. Lowry Street in Smyrna.

The McCormick family will receive visitors from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, also at Highland Heights Church of Christ.

Chief McCormick is survived by his wife Diana, sons Tyler and Jordan McCormick, daughter Ashley McCormick of Smyrna, two grandchildren, and his two siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents and just this past April by his son Brandon McCormick.

La Vergne Mayor, Dennis Waldron, praised McCormick and his dedication to the city during his three-plus decades of service, "The city of La Vergne is left with a heavy heart over the passing of our beloved Fire Chief and a great friend. He took basically a volunteer fire department and brought it up to first class." Waldron continued to share "Ricky was amazing. He was passionate about La Vergne and he was more passionate about the fire department."

La Vergne Assistant Fire Chief Chris Clark said that "The local community has been phenomenal. Thankfully the chief got us into a position to operate even if he wasn't here and we will continue to proudly." Clark further stated that while the men and women of the La Vergne Fire Department serve as pallbearers the city will be looked after by reserve personnel and personnel from other departments through community aide.

Those wishing to honor Chief McCormick are asked to gifts be made in his name to Box 100, a community-based support group for first responders in LaVergne, at www.box100lavergne.org.