On January 24, 2021, the FDNY lost a cherished member of its department with the passing of Lieutenant Gerard “Roddy” McGibbon due to a September 11th-related illness.

Born on July 11, 1959, Roddy always dreamed of becoming a firefighter, a goal he proudly achieved on September 14, 1987, when he joined the FDNY. He began his career in Brooklyn at Engine 283, a borough that would remain his professional home throughout his decades of service. After being promoted to lieutenant on September 17, 2001, Roddy transferred to Engine 206 and later served as an instructor at the fire academy. He concluded his distinguished career where his heart always laid, in a Brooklyn firehouse at Engine 217.

Roddy’s dedication to the department and to his community was unwavering. He responded to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, dutifully working in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero for many months thereafter. In 2020, he was diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer and passed away in 2021 at home surrounded by the family he held so dear.

Family was everything to Roddy. A devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, he is remembered with deep love by his wife, Diana; their children, James, Emily, Jonathan, and Victoria; his sisters, Patricia, Maureen, Ann, and Helen; his brother, Frankie, and his late brother, Joey. Roddy was the second youngest of seven siblings, and the strength of those family bonds shaped his life.

Roddy was an incredibly dedicated father and a man of deep compassion and purpose. His impact stretched far beyond the firehouse. A proud member of the AA recovery community, Roddy gave back by supporting and mentoring countless individuals through Alcoholics Anonymous. He also played a vital role in community volunteer efforts, including helping to organize the post-Hurricane Sandy recovery through the Lindy Man Power Association in Lindenhurst, New York.

Roddy was a source of light and strength to all who knew him. His selflessness, warmth, and enduring spirit continue to inspire those he left behind. He was and still is the heart and soul of our family. We love and miss him dearly. We take comfort in knowing that Roddy rests in peace, remembered for a life of service, integrity, and love.