Davey Boyd walked down to the fire hall in St. George, N.B. Tuesday morning to join in a celebration of the town’s new fire truck.

A few hours later, firefighters were battling a raging fire at the home he shared with his mother and two brothers. All four perished.

That fire truck is now a memorial for Davey Boyd, an honorary member of the volunteer fire department who was recognized in December for his 40 years of dedication.

Mother Esther Boyd, 80 and her three sons, Billy Boyd, 59, Robbie Boyd, 52, and Davey Boyd were buried Saturday on what would have been Davey’s 56th birthday.

All the victims died of smoke inhalation and a cause of the fire has not been determined. Officials say they have ruled out foul play in the incident.

Esther and her sons, who were in her care, were beloved in St. George, a town of about 1,500 people 120 kilometres south of Fredericton.

Some members of the fire department remained too emotional to talk of their loss at the memorial.

"It’s just really a dark week for everybody," said Kevin Theriault, president of the Fundy Firefighters Association, at Saturday’s service. Close to 100 firefighters from departments all over New Brunswick were in attendance.

The Baptist church was full for Saturday’s public service and the Anglican one across the street – where Davey attended – accommodated the rest.

Davey was often seen proudly walking around town with his uniform on. He helped out by washing the trucks and took part in parades.

“He was always around he was always a joy to be around. Like I say, we're missing a brother," said Theriault.

Bill Pilkington, who was the Boyd’s neighbour for 36 years, said he will remember the family fondly.

“Esther, for her courage and perseverance in keeping the family together and providing for the boys. And the boys, they were all incredible individuals."

Premier Brian Gallant and local MLA Rick Doucet attended the service.

"It was moving to hear the chief speak of Davey and to speak about what he had done for the community and what he had done for firefighters. Esther, Davey, Billy and Robbie are all going to be missed," said Gallant.

Neighbouring fire departments that covered calls within St. George throughout the weekend had to respond to a grass fire just metres from the churches during the family’s funeral.

Afterward, the main street was open to foot traffic only, so those in mourning could join together in the heart of St. George.

"I belong to the Anglican church where David always attended,” said resident Stan Smith. “He was always there every Sunday. He was there more than I was to be honest. But they were a lovely family. Their mother was just a wonderful person.”

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Laura Brown