Hundreds of people gathered Wednesday to say goodbye to the fallen Binghamton firefighter – John "JR" Gaudet – who died in the line of duty while battling flames in a downtown building last week.

A funeral Mass and procession were held with friends, family and fellow first responders from across the state paying tribute to Gaudet, his family and their sacrifice.

It’s been one week since the 40-year-old died. 

“When we love someone, no amount of time we are given to spend with them seems enough, and that certainly is true in this case,” Pastor John Putano said.

Gaudet served the Binghamton area as a firefighter for 11 years, but his reach extended far beyond.

“His name, his acts of kindness, his bravery, his impact on others will never be forgotten,” Mayor Jared Kraham said.

That’s why his loss has been so profound for the community.

“We’re all here today because of the impact that JR has had on us somehow,” family friend Patrick Dickerson said.

To his fellow firefighters, Gaudet was a brave and selfless leader.

“He was our brother. That bond lasts forever,” Lt. Ryan Hrebin said.

To his friends and family he left behind, Gaudet was a source of light and laugther.

“A guy who made the bad days bearable, and the good days even better,” Hrebin said.

And to Binghamton, he was a hero.

“JR was the first in line to go inside fires, not for the glory, cause it meant another firefighter didn’t have to, he put himself at risk so others could stay safe,” Kraham said.

People came from across the state to express their grief and pay respects.

“Binghamton has received condolences from across the state and across America, other fire departments in cities, faith leaders, neighbors, thoughtful strangers made Binghamton’s grief their own,” Kraham said.

Putano led the funeral Mass and spoke of Gaudet's enthusiasm and exuberance.

“He really lived life to the fullest,” he said, asking the community to embody his spirit going forward. “Be there for each other, take time out of our busy lives and check in with friends and neighbors. Put others first and most importantly, devote yourself to a cause greater than us. JR’s sacrifice was the greatest example of that.”

A bell rang to symbolize his passing and his work here.

“To those who have selflessly given their lives for the good of their fellow man, their task completed, their duties well done, to our comrades, their last alarm, they are going home,” firefighter Timothy Keenan said.