In the aftermath of a fire that destroyed District 4 Supervisor Eddie Brown’s home, Brown and his family have found much to be thankful for.

Local volunteer fire departments responded to the house fire Sunday night around 7 p.m. and fought the flames until about midnight, Lincoln County Emergency Coordinator Clifford Galey said. No one was injured.

Brown said the fire was started when the home’s gas water heater malfunctioned. Brown was home with his daughter and three grandchildren when it happened. Brown tried to fight the fire, he said, but couldn’t extinguish it. They were able to get the kids out and call 911.

Hog Chain and Bogue Chitto volunteer fire departments responded with help from Summit. The departments fought and did everything they could to put it out, Brown said, but couldn’t get it under control. It was a total loss.

“The fire departments did a good job for them, and thankfully nobody was hurt,” Galey said. “So many times people get hurt or lose their lives, so that’s something to be thankful for.”

Brown said he plans on rebuilding his home. Until then, he said his local agent and State Farm insurance have been incredible, covering a mobile home to be put on the property in the next week or so until the house is rebuilt.

“The people of Lincoln County are tremendous. I’ve had so much support from the community it has been overwhelming,” Brown said. “It’ll just bring tears to your eyes what people have done for us.”

Brown said the community has responded by giving food, clothing and support to the family. He mentioned Johnson Grove Church of Christ, Mt. Zion Baptist Church and Montgomery Baptist Church as well as Chancery Clerk Tillmon Bishop among others that have taken it upon themselves to help out.

“’Thank you’ would be small words, it just isn’t enough to express how grateful I am,” Brown said.

Bishop created an avenue for collecting donations for Brown and family. He said while insurance and generous people step in to meet immediate needs, when it is a total loss there are more needs. Those who wish to contribute may drop off a check or cash in a sealed envelope to anyone in the Chancery Clerk’s Office. The funds will be collected and given to Brown this week and as more donations are received.

“People can put their name on it or not, whatever they feel,” Bishop said. “When you have somebody that has something like that happening, standing back and doing nothing is the wrong thing to do.”

Fortunately, Lincoln County and Brookhaven aren’t good at standing back and doing nothing.

“We are thankful that we are together, that we didn’t lose anybody,” Brown said. “We are thankful to the Lord — can’t have any doubt in your faith because there is a lot to be thankful for.”