Ray Pfeifer was a FDNY firefighter from 1987-2014 and a responder on 9/11/2001. He was assigned to Engine 40/Ladder 35 in Manhattan.
Ray was married to Caryn. His son, Terence, also works for FDNY and is assigned to Bronx Engine Co. 79. His daughter, Taylor, works with individuals with autism.
Ray grew up in Levittown, New York, and moved to Hicksville in 1989. He was at the World Trade Center after the buildings collapsed and worked there for months afterwards. In 2009, he was diagnosed with renal carcinoma with metastases to bones, lungs, and brain, a result of exposure to toxins while working at Ground Zero.
Ray was an advocate for the World Trade Center Health Program, 9/11 Health Care Bill/Zadroga Extension Bill with John Feal of the Feal Good Foundation, retired FDNY firefighter Kenny Specht, actor Jon Stewart, Congressman Peter King, and Senator Kristin Gillibrand. He traveled to Washington, DC, and New York City on many occasions to rally and try to educate senators and congress members on the need for the extension of this health care bill.
Ray Pfeifer passed away while in hospice care in Roslyn, New York, on May 28, 2017. A FDNY Family Assistance Van was donated in his name in April 2017.
The Ray Pfeifer Foundation raises money and donations for all 9/11 responders in need of medical equipment which is not covered by their insurance.
May the Good God in Heaven hold you daily and show you the grace and peace you so much deserve, I’m so sorry for your pain and suffering as it breaks my heart to see how much you gave to us, thank you kind Sir.
– PaulWould you know my name if I saw you in Heaven? Gosh I miss you. Life is good, but it’s a very different life without you here. Two fingers to you my friend, my brother, my partner in crime. And till we meet again I will NEVER FORGET!
– Maryellen McKeeJust learned about what an amazing man Ray was after watching a tv program. God bless this man. Thank you for responding when the USA needed you. Sorry it took so long for people to remember.
– GeneJust heard your story Ray. Heroes don’t have to wear capes, RIP
– PatReat in peace Ray in the arms of the Lord. What an amazing man you were. Just saw the documentary and how you and your colleagues fought for the bill to be passed. God bless from Ireland
– Marisa Millan y CumminsThoughts and prayers for Ray Pfeifer & his family & NYFD family. You are in our hearts forever. ❤️
– Ronald Viscovich