Winston-Salem Fire Department Mourns Loss of Integration Pioneer Robert Grier at 104
Retired Sergeant Robert Grier, one of the first Black firefighters in the Winston-Salem Fire Department, has passed away at the age of 104. Grier was part of the 'Original 8,' a group that integrated the department in 1951, over a decade before the end of racial segregation in the United States. Born and raised in Forsyth County, Grier attended North Carolina A&T State University and served in the Army during World War II. His contributions to the fire department are remembered as paving the way for future generations. Battalion Chief Desmond Teal, who considers himself an honorary grandson of Grier, emphasized the legacy left by the 'Original 8' as foundational for the community. Grier retired after a 30-year career with the department. A funeral service is scheduled to be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. 
