Public service and community impact  

Brosi noted that the Riches were both Bay Ridge locals and extremely connected to the people of Brooklyn and the FDNY. “They were big on public service,” he said.  

Riches’ other son, Thomas, stated it best in the eulogy for his father:  “He chose not to move to Florida but to stay here in Brooklyn based on his love for the borough and where he felt most at home.”   

Remembering the fallen 

According to Brosi, Riches will best be remembered for the dignity in which he handled the loss of his son because “he took up that fight to assist in what others had lost and what everybody was suffering with thereafter.” 

“Overall, it was a very nice turnout and a proper recognition for a good man who not only served his time with the department but also cared a great deal about people,” Brosi said.  

Riches’ death is part of the continuing and deadly toll of exposure from the 9/11 attacks. More than 343 firefighters were killed on 9/11, and more than 400 FDNY members have died from 9/11-related illnesses. 

Riches is survived by his wife, Rita, three children and eight grandchildren.

Riches became an advocate for 9/11 survivors following the attacks. According to the Daily News, he joined rallies on Capitol Hill to fight the federal government’s attempts to cut 9/11 health care funding.

Firefighters, elected officials, family and friends gathered at the church to pay their respects.

“A devoted member of the FDNY, he was appointed on Aug. 13, 1977, and retired on Dec. 18, 2007, after an extraordinary 30 years of service to the City of New York,” UFANY said in a statement. “Throughout his distinguished career, Deputy Chief Riches exemplified the highest traditions of our department. His dedication included responding to and assisting with the rescue and recovery operations at Manhattan Fifth Alarm Box 8087–World Trade Center. His courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting life and property will forever be remembered.”

Visitation was held for Riches at McLaughlin & Sons Funeral Home Nov. 30.

“We mourn the loss of Retired Deputy Chief James “Jimmy” Riches — a true FDNY hero who dedicated 30 years of his life to protecting our city,” wrote Assemblymember Michael Novakhov. “His service, including his selfless work in the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center, represents the very best of New York. Deputy Chief Riches embodied bravery, leadership and compassion. His passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the continued sacrifices made by our 9/11 first responders.”