Richard N. Driscoll

What Happened

Firefighter of the Fire Department of the City of New York, who died of an illness from the rescue and recovery at the World Trade Center. The department added the name to its World Trade Center Memorial Wall at the ceremony of 06 September 2019. He died on 17 July 2019, aged 73.

Biography

Richard N. Driscoll III was born on February 2, 1946, and grew up in Stuyvesant, New York. After graduating high school, he served in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. On July 11, 1970, Richie proudly followed two of his uncles into the FDNY. He served as a devoted firefighter for 32 years, primarily at Engine 91 in Spanish Harlem, his second home. He was known as the “Mayor of 111th Street,” forming strong bonds with local residents and guiding junior firefighters with his signature advice, “Do the right thing.” Richie loved the job deeply and was recognized with multiple commendations for bravery and saving lives. On September 11, 2001, though off duty, Richie responded immediately to the World Trade Center attacks, driving straight into the heart of the devastation. He spent months at Ground Zero searching for his fallen brothers. His passing, six years ago, was the direct result of a 9/11-related illness, a testament to the lasting toll of that day and his selfless bravery. At home, Richie’s greatest role was as a father. He became stepdad—and only dad—to two young girls, ages 11 and 7, loving them as his own. A few years later, his daughter was born, and his pride in her shone like a badge. He raised all three daughters with patience, humor, and devotion, often capturing family memories through his beloved camera. With love in his heart and camera in hand, he helped preserve their family’s story. After retiring in 2002, Richie became active with the FDNY Orange County Retirees and was a charter member of the FDNY Orange County Pipes and Drums. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #5890, American Legion Post #488, the FDNY Holy Name Society, and the FDNY Emerald Society. Proud of his Irish heritage, he marched in parades, playing the bagpipes with honor.

When his daughters opened bakeries, Richie was their biggest supporter—spreading the word, bringing in customers, and visiting daily to order his favorites, a “cuppachino” and a “Gilbert.” His visits were filled with laughter, stories, and his modest pride. Richie was a man of quiet strength—gentle, humble, loyal, and kind. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend who cherished lifelong relationships. In June 2018, Richie was diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer. He passed on July 17, 2019, without ever letting the illness break his spirit. He is deeply missed by all who know him. His legacy lives on not only in his acts of service, but in the humility, compassion, and love he shared with everyone around him.

Service Record

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