William and Zachariah Brice, two brothers whose lives ended unexpectedly in a house fire, left behind a legacy of love, courage and faith. The Brice family’s story is a poignant reminder of God’s comfort and mercy in the midst of unimaginable loss.
When a fire broke out in their Virginia home on April 10, the two brothers, William, 6, and Zachariah, 3, found themselves stranded. Despite the possibility of escape, William chose to protect his younger brother, covering him with his own body.
Their father, James Brice, described William’s selflessness: “He’s smart enough to have gotten out of the house…and I think he saw his brother in danger…and went to protect him.” .
The bravery and love William showed became clear when first responders found him protecting his younger brother, Zachariah, from the flames. Even in their final moments, these brothers exemplified the sacrificial love that reflects the compassion of Jesus.
“We are in pain, but at the same time, it’s as if my 6-year-old child had made the most manly choice possible, and at the same time, it’s as if I was a proud father of the be,” James said.
