UPDATE: Retired Tewksbury Fire Chief James J. Morris, aged 97, has passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on November 12, 2025. This news has come as a profound loss to the community he dedicated his life to serving.
Morris, a lifelong resident of Tewksbury, was known for his unwavering commitment to public safety and his love for the town. He is survived by his wife, Constance R. Morris, with whom he shared an incredible 73 years of marriage. Their union is a testament to his enduring family values and community spirit.
Born in Lowell, MA, on June 28, 1928, Morris graduated from Tewksbury High School in 1949. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1950, serving during the Korean War until his honorable discharge in 1952. His dedication continued as he joined the Tewksbury Fire Department, where he served for an impressive 38 years before retiring as Fire Chief in 1988.
Morris’s legacy is carried on by his four children: Deborah J. Goodwin from Merrimack, NH, James W. Morris of Dunstable, Constance R. Morris of Tewksbury, and the late Frederick R. Morris. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Louise E. Donovan of Methuen, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
The community will have the opportunity to pay their respects on Wednesday, November 19, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, located at 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. William’s Church, situated 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 be made in Morris’s memory to the Salvation Army at www.SalvationArmyMA.org/Lowell.
This is a significant loss for Tewksbury as Morris’s commitment to public service and his dedication to his family and community will be fondly remembered. As the community rallies to honor his memory, many will reflect on the impact he made throughout his life.
