Patrick James Death, Obituary – The Fitchburg, Massachusetts, community and the firefighting profession are mourning the loss of Patrick James “PJ” Roy, an active-duty Deputy Chief with the Fitchburg Fire Department, who passed away on Wednesday, July 8, at the age of 45. His death has left an immeasurable void within the department, the city he faithfully served, and among countless firefighters who admired him for his leadership, dedication, and advocacy for occupational cancer awareness.
Remembered as a respected officer, devoted public servant, and proud third-generation firefighter, PJ devoted nearly two decades of his life to protecting the residents of Fitchburg while continuing a family legacy that has spanned generations.
For Patrick “PJ” Roy, firefighting was far more than a career it was a calling that had been part of his life since childhood.
According to Acting Fitchburg Fire Chief Patrick Haverty, PJ had been a member of the Fitchburg Fire Department since November 2006 and had served as Deputy Chief for the past three years. Although he officially joined the department nearly twenty years ago, his connection to the fire service began long before he put on the uniform.
Growing up surrounded by generations of firefighters, PJ developed a deep appreciation for public service and the responsibility that came with protecting his community.
His colleagues remember him as someone who embodied the values of courage, integrity, and selfless service every day he came to work.
The Roy name has been synonymous with the Fitchburg Fire Department for generations.
PJ followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Verne E. Roy, who joined the department in 1947 before retiring in 1986.
His father, James V. “Jimmy” Roy, dedicated more than 40 years to the department, while his uncle, Kevin D. Roy, served as Fire Chief from 1995 until his retirement in 2020.
The family’s commitment to public service continues today through PJ’s brother, Sean J. Roy, and his cousin, Captain Andrew Roy, who both serve with the Fitchburg Fire Department.
For PJ, becoming a firefighter was not only fulfilling a lifelong dream but also carrying forward a proud tradition of serving the people of Fitchburg with honor.
Throughout his career, PJ earned the admiration of fellow firefighters through his professionalism, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment to the department’s mission.
Whether responding to emergencies, mentoring younger firefighters, or helping guide the department as Deputy Chief, he consistently placed the safety of both his colleagues and the community above everything else.
His leadership inspired confidence, and his dedication helped strengthen the department he loved.
Those who served alongside him remember not only his knowledge and experience but also the compassion and humility that defined his approach to leadership.
Beyond his operational responsibilities, PJ became a respected advocate for raising awareness about occupational cancer among firefighters.
Understanding the unique health risks associated with the profession, he worked to educate others about prevention, early detection, and the importance of protecting firefighters both on and off the job.
His advocacy extended beyond his department, earning him respect throughout the firefighting community as someone committed to improving the safety and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
His efforts helped bring greater attention to an issue that continues to affect firefighters across the country.
News of PJ Roy’s passing has prompted an overwhelming outpouring of grief and support throughout Fitchburg and beyond.
Colleagues, friends, residents, and fellow firefighters have shared heartfelt tributes celebrating his years of service, his leadership, and the compassion he showed to everyone around him.
Many have reflected on his positive influence, his willingness to mentor others, and his steadfast commitment to making both his department and his community stronger.
His passing is deeply felt not only by those who served alongside him but by the countless residents whose lives were made safer through his dedication.
Patrick James “PJ” Roy leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, leadership, and compassion.
His nearly twenty years with the Fitchburg Fire Department, his advocacy for firefighter health, and his role in continuing one of the department’s most distinguished family traditions have secured his place in the history of the community he so proudly served.
Although his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, his example will continue to inspire future generations of firefighters who choose lives of courage, sacrifice, and service.
At the time of this writing, funeral and memorial service arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.
The Roy family and the Fitchburg Fire Department are expected to share additional details as they become available. Community members are encouraged to respect the family’s privacy while keeping them in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Patrick James “PJ” Roy will be remembered as a devoted Deputy Chief, a proud third-generation firefighter, a passionate advocate for firefighter health, and a compassionate leader whose dedication to serving others never wavered.
His life was one of courage, commitment, and selfless service a legacy that will continue to live on through his family, his fellow firefighters, and the community he spent his career protecting.
The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of the firefighting community and the City of Fitchburg remain with the Roy family, the members of the Fitchburg Fire Department, and everyone mourning the loss of Deputy Chief Patrick James “PJ” Roy. May they find comfort in his extraordinary legacy and strength in the countless lives he touched through his unwavering service.
