Branford Fire Retired Assistant Chief Robert Massey Passes Away

BRANFORD, CT —Branford firefighters, and the community, are mourning the death of retired assistant fire chief Robert J Massey Sr.

In a Facebook post, the Branford Fire Department said though Massey had retired after serving for 60 years, he "remained a trusted advisor" to current fire chief Tom Mahoney.

"It is with deep regret and great sadness that we announce the passing of Assistant Chief Robert J Massey Sr. (RET). Assistant Chief Massey joined the Department as a member of Hook and Ladder CO #1 in 1952, serving for more than 60 years. He was a founding member and the first Captain of Rescue Squad 1 in 1970. He rose through the ranks of the Department serving as Firefighter, Lieutenant and Captain of CO 1 before his promotion to Deputy Chief in 1976 and Assistant Chief of Support Services in 1996. Up until his death he faithfully monitored department activity listening to his scanner, always concerned for the safety of the members. He remained a trusted advisor to the current Chief of Department and will be greatly missed. We extend our deepest condolences to Jean, his beloved wife of 64 years, his son, Fire Commission Chairman Robert J. Massey, Jr. and the entire Massey family."