LYNN — The Lynn police community is reflecting on the legacy of former LPD Lieutenant and Navy Veteran Edward Sullivan.
Born in Lynn in 1928, Sullivan enrolled in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Antietam after graduating from high school. Before he served as a Lieutenant of the LPD traffic department, Sullivan worked for various railroads in the Northeast, and General Electric.
Sullivan went on to join the LPD in 1956, and became Sergeant in 1969. He was promoted to his Lieutenant role in 1977, which he held until his retirement in 1994.
Many of those who knew Sullivan at the LPD had a certain word in mind when describing his personality and remembering his service to the city.
“Lt. Sullivan was in charge of the Traffic Unit when I first joined the department. I remember him as one of those veteran officers who was always approachable and willing to provide direction or guidance without question. This was especially significant because he was a lieutenant. He made you feel like you belonged from day one,” current LPD Police Chief Christopher Reddy told The Daily Item.
“He was a true gentleman and a role model for how to treat others. I am grateful for having the opportunity to have worked with him,” said Reddy.
Former LPD Captain Joseph Rowe agreed with that sentiment.
“He was a true gentleman. He did his job, no fanfare. He did his part, and he was a really nice guy to work for. You almost didn’t notice he was there, he was so humble,” Rowe said.
Meanwhile, retired LPD Lt. Richard Sims also paid his respects to Sullivan.
“He was a gentleman. He was nice to everybody. He could’ve been a priest, that’s how nice he was. I’ll always remember him,” Sims said.
Sullivan married his wife Gloria, who was also a Lynn native, at Lynn’s St. Mary’s Church in 1952. They had four children together, Paul, Jeanne, Phil, and Jen. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 26 at the age of 97, and his memorial service and burial were held at Solimine’s Funeral Home and Pine Grove Cemetery on Aug. 23.
“Lt. Sullivan’s dedicated service as a veteran and a leader in the Lynn Police Department will leave a lasting impact in our community,” said Mayor Jared C. Nicholson. “We are grateful for his commitment to public safety and extend our deepest sympathies to his family.”
