Francis J. Casey

Retired Worcester Fire Captain Francis J. Casey, 78 of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Oakdale Nursing Home with his children by his side.

Francis was born in Worcester, a son of the late Paul A. and Gertrude M. (Flynn) Casey. He started his education at The Ascension School and graduated from St. John’s High School, Class of 1965. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Worcester State College, Class of 1979. Francis enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country proudly during the Vietnam War on the USS Glover.

Upon his return home from his military discharge, Francis worked as a police officer for the City of Worcester Police Department and was promoted to police sergeant in 1978. Shortly thereafter, Francis moved to the Worcester Fire Department working as a firefighter. He was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in 1983 and Fire Captain in 1988, retiring after 30 years of service in 2002.

Francis was a model train enthusiast who was a member of the Massachusetts Railroad Model Train Association. He was a member of St. Joan of Arc Church where he was a church lector. Francis loved all Boston Sports Teams and spending time with family especially his grandchildren.

Francis’ wife of 57 years, Roberta A. (Mitten) Casey passed away on January 7, 2025. He is survived by their two children, Laurie M. Desroches and her husband Raymond of Garner, NC. And Matthew Casey of Rochdale; five grandchildren, Justin Langhill and his partner Megan Doherty of Raleigh, NC., Bryan Langhill and his partner Carl Kellenbenz of Auburn, Cameron Casey and Kiera Casey both of Eagle Mountain, UT. and Nolan Casey of Worcester; many cousins and extended family and friends. Besides his wife and parents, Francis was predeceased by a sister, Patricia M. Casey and his godfather, Walter Flynn who died in the Korean War.

Funeral services for Francis will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 with a funeral procession from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester to Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove St., Worcester where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am. Burial with military funeral honors will follow in Saint John’s Cemetery, Worcester. Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, January 22nd from 5-8 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be made to: Jewish Healthcare Hospice, 629 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA. 01609-1120