Newton Fire Lieutenant Ray McNamara Dies At 79

NEWTON, MA — Newton Fire Lieutenant Raymond McNamara, who is known as a local hero for his bravery and sacrifices he made as a firefighter, died peacefully at his home in Watertown on Tuesday at the age of 79.

McNamara, known as ‘RayMac,’ was one of 11 Newton firefighters who were injured from a chemical explosion after rushing into a burning building on Needham Street in October 1993. He burned over 90 percent of his body, endured many operations, and lost his sight.

Despite these difficulties, he remained an active member of the community and was regularly seen at city events for years.

“His love for the profession, his dedication to the department and his fellow fire fighters, and his boundless enthusiasm for life inspired us all,” said Mayor Ruthanne Fuller in a statement Thursday.

According to his obituary, McNamara was a U.S. Navy Veteran, an avid Red Sox fan, knew every song written in the 50s and 60s, and would remember details about you that even you didn’t remember.

McNamara leaves behind his wife and five children, including two sons serving on the Newton Fire Department, as well as 12 grandchildren, his siblings, and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, Jan. 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Bernard Parish on Washington Street in West Newton followed by entombment at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum in Waltham. All attendees at church are asked to wear a mask.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project or The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society. A celebration of life will be held post-pandemic.