Brian Hickey Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

LOCATION

New York, New York

Unspoken Devotion
There is no telling how many New Yorkers are walking around because Capt. Brian Hickey became a New York City firefighter 20 years ago. He commanded Rescue Company 4, which rushes to every major fire in Queens, not to fight flames, but to save trapped civilians and firefighters.

It has always been among the department's most dangerous jobs. Two of his men were killed in Astoria last Father's Day, and another died with him at 2 World Trade Center on Sept. 11.

Yet the 47-year-old captain, who had suffered burns and other injuries many times on the job, never dwelled on the dangers. Instead, he spoke with pride of the brotherhood (women included) of firefighters.

"It means they are ready to lay down their lives for one another," his wife, Donna, said. "They all knew it. It was something unspoken among them."

He was also a volunteer firefighter in Bethpage, N.Y., where he grew up, married his high school sweetheart and had four children: Danny, 23; Dennis, 18; Jaclyn, 16; and Kevin, 10.

In 1992, Captain Hickey and his only brother, Raymond, created "Brothers in Battle," a 45-minute video documentary about firefighting. It is still used in training.

In 1993, Raymond died of cancer. "Brian was at his side for 11 months," Mrs. Hickey recalled. "I've never seen such love and compassion."

Not sure what to say?

Get email updates for this page

Posting Guidelines|FAQ

I will never ever forget Brian and Ray. These guys were gods gift to us all. I was at the scene of the south tower on 9-11, something I see every day. never again.
I saw Donna a few years ago and she looked well, she and the children deserve the best we all can give them, don't forget them please.
I am a past co 3 truckie and a fellow grad of Bethpage hs with Ray. He had such a good heart who left us way too early. I will forever remember these angels for as long as I live. They...

Matthew Jollon

February 21, 2025 | Lehigh Acres, FL | Friend

Good kind hearted young man. Gone too Soon

Brooke Valdez

October 09, 2024 | LA, ID | Military

Another year gone. But we in The London Fire Brigade will never forget the 343 and those who have passed since. We say your names with pride and honour Also Ray and Flo Hickey may they rest in peace together

Malcolm Burden

September 12, 2023 | Bucks, ME | Friend

I taught about Bria’s sacrifice to my middle school students for 22 years he will never be forgotten.

Joe Reilly

September 12, 2023 | Mesa, AZ | Teacher

Brian and I served in the U.S. Air Force together at Hill AFB Utah.Ooh the times we had.Miss you my brother.

Steven Sawyer

September 11, 2023 | Westbrook, ME | Military

To Donna.... To my friend, to my Brother, to my fellow Firefighter ! Luv Ya and Remember Forever! Joe (Chico) Tufano Retired RES4CUE

Joseph Tufano

September 10, 2023 | Family

Thinking of you today on your special day, hope you are enjoying your day with your son Dennis. You are a true hero, an amazing man, and you are never forgotten! Happy heavenly birthday. <3

Cara

June 11, 2023

Dear Brian, I was privileged to read your name aloud on the 20th anniversary of 9/11/21. I said that you were so brave, so missed, and so loved by so many. The time permitted restricted me, but if I could have, I would have said what I have faith you already know: that your wife Donna was amazingly strong for your family and to this day says your name with a smile, that your children Danny, Jackie, and Kevin grew to be beautiful people, and that our entire family firmly believes that you hold...

Jacqueline DeRosa

September 12, 2021 | NY | Family

The "Man's man!". I smile naturally when I say or hear his name. He was a friend.

John H Brannen

September 05, 2021 | Coworker

Capt. Brian Hickey

About

Obituary

Guest Book