Master Firefighter Preston Lee Fant, a 21-year veteran of DeKalb County Fire Rescue, was honored at a public funeral service at Truist Park on Thursday.

Fant, 53, died in the line of duty on Sept. 8 while battling a warehouse fire in Lithonia. He was trying to rescue a fellow firefighter when he became trapped inside the burning structure. Officials said he was rushed to Grady Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

A public visitation and viewing was held a the ballpark, followed by a funeral service. Hundreds attended, including other firefighters and first responders.

During the service, he was described as a key part to the rescue team and as an “extraordinary firefighter,” the kind others would want beside them on every call.

Fant was born Jan. 18, 1972, in Marietta and raised in Mableton. He graduated from Pebblebrook High School, where he wrestled and developed the discipline that would define both his career and life.

He served at Station 24 for his entire fire service career and earned certifications in swiftwater rescue, trench rescue, structural collapse, and high-angle rope operations. He was widely known for his calm leadership under pressure and his commitment to protecting others.

Outside of his career, Fant was a devoted family man, husband, father of five, and grandfather. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, restoring cars, watching the Atlanta Braves, building homes, and gathering with friends and family around bonfires.

“He was the very definition of a firefighter: brave, selfless, and unwavering in his commitment to others,” his obituary reads.

Fant was a man of faith and a member of Burnt Hickory Baptist Church. His family said his faith, family, and service shaped the legacy he leaves behind.

He is survived by:

• His wife, Leigh Fant
• His five children: Sara (Percy), Ginger (Chandler), Timothy, Amber and Nathan
• His granddaughter, Harper
• His father, Tommy Fant
• His brother, Chris (Kristi) Fant

In a recorded statement at the service, his wife said her heart aches behind the loss.

“You are me soulmate, the love of my life and I feel like there’s just a hole in my soul that will never be filled,” she said.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that donations be made to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

A graveside service was held at  Kennesaw Memorial Park