URGENT UPDATE: Retired Tewksbury Fire Chief James J. Morris has passed away at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to his community. Morris died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on November 12, 2025.
This news comes as a significant loss to the Tewksbury community, where Morris served for 38 years in the fire department, ultimately retiring as chief in 1988. His commitment to protecting the town he loved was evident throughout his career, which began after he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War era.
Born on June 28, 1928, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Morris was a lifelong resident of Tewksbury and a proud graduate of Tewksbury High School, Class of 1949. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Constance R. (Nolan) Morris, along with four children and a large extended family that includes eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
The family will welcome friends at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home on November 19, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. William’s Church, located at 1351 Main Street, Route 38, Tewksbury. Services will conclude with interment at St. Mary Cemetery, 90 River Road, Tewksbury.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Morris’s memory to the Salvation Army via their website at www.SalvationArmyMA.org/Lowell.
Morris’s passing marks the end of an era for Tewksbury, where his contributions as a firefighter and community leader will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. His dedication to service and family will leave a lasting impact on the community he cherished.
Stay tuned for further updates and tributes as the community honors a true hero.
