Fallen Worcester Firefighter Christopher Roy remembered as devoted father

WORCESTER, Mass. — The community has come together to honor the life of Christopher Roy, the Worcester firefighter and single father killed in the line of duty.

The 36-year-old died fighting a 5-alarm fire early Sunday morning on Lowell Street, rattling the fire department and communities across the state.

Before becoming a firefighter two years ago, Roy was the manager at Texas Roadhouse. Friends and co-workers say he had a big heart and always had a big smile.

"Chris was probably the only manager that actually you weren’t scared to see. There was always a smile on his face and working with a bunch of girls, you couldn't, you had to have patience with us and he was great, always a smile," said former co-worker Alexia Melendez.

>> Funeral services, memorial fund announced for fallen Worcester firefighter

Friends tell Boston 25 News Roy ultimately left the restaurant business to become a firefighter to have more stability for his young daughter, 9-year-old Ava.

Those friends are now raising money to help the little girl.

"It gives me chills every time I look at it, when I set it up in the morning, or just walk by it I feel his presence is there," said former co-worker Jonathan Richmond.

Richmond set up a fundraiser at the restaurant he manages, Wicked Wing Company, in honor of Roy.

"We put a shot of Jameson and a pint of Guinness, kind of the last drink tribute to Chris. This barstool will be reserved for his memory all week, but we just wanted to do something in honor of him for him and his daughter," he said.

At the time of his death, Roy was also working part-time at Consigli Construction in Milford. The company released a statement saying in part:

"Chris was equally dedicated to his construction craft, always willing to go the extra mile.  Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and young daughter during this difficult time."

Funeral services

Funeral services for Christopher Roy have been announced.

Calling hours will be held: St. John's Catholic Church in Worcester on Friday. Dec. 14 from 4-8 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at the same church on Saturday, Dec. 15 at 10 a.m. following a private family procession. Burial will immediately follow at Notre Dame Cemetery.

How to help

A memorial fund has been established by Worcester Firefighter IAFF Local 1009 in the name of his daughter, Ava Roy.

Checks may be made payable to the Ava Roy Fund and mailed to: Worcester Fire Department Credit Union, 34 Glennie Street, Worcester, MA 01605.

The medical examiner's office has not yet revealed the cause of death.

Cox Media Group