Fire departments and municipal networks across northern Worcester County are in deep mourning following the sudden passing of Deputy Chief Patrick “P.J.” Roy. A highly respected, third-generation firefighter, master apparatus designer, and invaluable training mentor, Deputy Chief Roy passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
His sudden departure leaves a profound void across both the Fitchburg Fire Department and the Ashby Fire Department, where he dedicated his life to protecting local communities, advancing first responder safety, and upholding an honorable family legacy of public service.
| Profile Parameter | Verified Departmental, Communal, & Service Records |
| Full Legal Name | Patrick “P.J.” Roy |
| Date of Passing | Tuesday, July 7, 2026 |
| Hometown Roots | Fitchburg, Massachusetts |
| Scholastic Alma Mater | Fitchburg High School |
| Primary Command Roles | Deputy Chief (Fitchburg FD) · Deputy Chief (Ashby FD) |
| Ashby FD Appointment | Joined in 2016 (Rose through the ranks to Deputy Chief) |
| Core Departmental Impact | Fleet Apparatus Engineering, Recruit Mentorship, Safety Champion |
| Family Legacy of Service | Grandson of Verne “Buck” Roy | Son of Firefighter James V. Roy |
| Advocacy Work | Dedicated Speaker for Early Cancer Detection in the Fire Service |
Carrying the Torch: A Proud Third-Generation Legacy
For Patrick, answering the call of the fire service was more than a professional choice—it was a cherished family tradition woven deeply into the fabric of the City of Fitchburg. He grew up watching the brave examples set by his grandfather, Verne “Buck” Roy, who served Fitchburg on Ladder 1 for nearly forty years, and his father, longtime Fitchburg Firefighter James V. Roy.
Tragically, Patrick lost his father, James, to occupational cancer after a 40-year career on the front lines. Rather than backing away from the profession, Patrick channeled that profound loss into an advocacy mission. Partnering with the early detection organization DetecTogether (formerly 15-40 Connection), Patrick served as a passionate advocate and speaker. He regularly shared his family’s experience at regional events and anniversaries to educate fellow firefighters on how to save their own lives through advanced cancer screening and early detection protocols.
A Twin Pillar of Leadership: Fitchburg and Ashby Fire Departments
Patrick’s extensive clinical and tactical knowledge made him a sought-after leader across municipal borders. In Fitchburg, he rose through the ranks to Captain and ultimately served as Deputy Chief, earning a reputation among his peers as an exceptional mentor whose boots would be incredibly difficult to fill.
Concurrently, Patrick joined the neighboring Ashby Fire Department in 2016. Chief Brian Reichelt of the Ashby Fire Department issued a heartfelt statement reflecting on how quickly Patrick became an indispensable architect of their modern department:
“Through his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the fire service, he rose through the ranks to Deputy Chief and helped shape the department into what it is today. Patrick’s impact extended far beyond emergency responses. He played a key role in the design and specification of new apparatus, mentored and trained firefighters, championed safety, and worked tirelessly to strengthen the culture of our department.”
A Brotherhood’s Anchor
Beyond his deep technical expertise in custom engine specifications and fire ground command, Patrick was universally cherished for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and infectious ability to lift spirits during the darkest or most physically exhausting shifts.
He was known to quietly look out for his fellow brothers and sisters in the fire service—stepping up to assist with personal hardships, guide younger recruits through rigorous training modules, or quietly handle administrative challenges behind the scenes without ever seeking a single shred of personal recognition or praise.
Chief Reichelt and the collective members of the Ashby and Fitchburg Fire Departments have extended their deepest condolences to the extended Roy family, friends, and the regional firefighting community. Final memorial arrangements, traditional fire department dress honors, and dynamic apparatus procession lines are currently being coordinated out of Fitchburg and will be shared with the public as protocols are finalized.