Lt. Damian M. “Jug” Drella Obituary, SAUGUS, Mass. — The Saugus Fire Department is mourning the loss of Lt. Damian M. “Jug” Drella, who passed away at age 58 after battling occupational cancer.
A lifelong Saugus resident and graduate of Saugus High School, Drella dedicated nearly four decades to serving his hometown. His public safety career began in 1987, when he joined the community as a part-time public safety dispatcher. Four years later, he became a full-time firefighter with the Saugus Fire Department.
During 39 years of dedicated service, Drella earned several commendations recognizing his work in saving lives, calming dangerous situations, and carefully documenting important scenes through photography. His commitment to the department and the community became a defining part of his professional life.
Drella also became the department’s trusted photographer. Through his photographs, he preserved countless memories from the firehouse and the wider Saugus community. His images captured moments of service, friendship, and camaraderie and often provided comfort and laughter during difficult days.
In 2025, Drella received the Thomas R. Linskey Award of Merit, the highest honor presented to a member of the Saugus Fire Department. The recognition reflected his longstanding dedication and contributions to the department throughout his career.
Away from the firehouse, Drella was Andrea’s husband, a father of two sons, and a grandfather. His sons followed his example by entering the fire service, with Alexander joining the Mendon Fire Department and Christian joining the Melrose Fire Department.
Visiting hours are scheduled for Tuesday, August 25, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will follow Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church in Saugus. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Saugus Firefighters Relief Association.
Drella’s photographs, friendship, humor, and lifetime of service leave a lasting legacy within the Saugus Fire Department and the community he served. His years of dedication and the memories he preserved through his work will remain a treasured part of Saugus for generations to come.