Remembering Firefighter James Rice

Since the that cost the life of Peabody Firefighter James Rice, family, friends and colleagues have remembered Rice as a humble guy who loved his family and being a firefighter.

Chief Steve Pasdon fought back tears

“As a fire chief, I have 100 firefighters that work under me... I can say Firefighter James Rice was liked and loved by everybody. He was a very popular firefighter and also a very popular man in the community," said the chief.

Rice’s brother-in-law Brian Goldsworthy told the Boston Herald that Rice was happiest when with his family and three children. He attended their soccer games and adored his kids.

Rice, 42, is survived by his wife Amy and children: Alyssa (12), Katelyn (9) and Ryan (7).

Russell Lewis, who leads the local union that represents Peabody firefighters, said Rice had “a heart of gold.”

“He always had a smile on his face,” Lewis said. “He always liked coming to work. He was always there for helping out people, if you needed something.”

Eleven years ago, Rice actually left a career in finance and BankBoston to become a Peabody firefighter -- a decision family members have said was due to his love of helping others.

Rice, born in Saugus, grew up in Peabody and went on to graduate from St. John's Prep and Bentley College.

He graduated from the Mass. Fire Academy on June 15, 2001 and was stationed with Engine 5 out of the West Peabody firehouse at the time of his death Friday in the line of duty.

The Prep has created an online forum where people can share thoughts and remembrances of Rice.

"We are deeply saddened at the loss of James Rice, a 1987 graduate of St. John's Prep... let us pray that the Spirit will be a source of strength and consolation to Jim's family, members of the Peabody Fire Department, and all those who mourn his loss. May Jim's soul and all the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace," reads an announcement on the Prep's website.

Do you have memories of Firefighter James Rice? We invite you to share your remembrances of Firefighter Rice below in our comment section.