On Sunday, June 6, 2021, a Memorial Service for Chief Thomas R. Darmody III (Retired Lacey Township Police) will be held at Riggs Funeral Home, 130 Route 9 North in Forked River. The Memorial will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (services beginning at 12:00 p.m). I have attached a copy of our original news release below from May 7, 2021.
It is with great sadness that the Lacey Township Police Department announces the passing of Chief Thomas R. Darmody III, Badge #6 (Retired), on May 7, 2021. Chief Darmody began his Law Enforcement Career in 1960 with the Long Beach Township Police Department (LBTPD), where he served in the capacity of Patrolman. He maintained this position with LBTPD until June 30th, 1962, when he transferred to the Lacey Township Police Department. In 1963, Chief Darmody took a temporary leave of absence to serve a tour of duty with the United States Army Military Police. He ultimately returned to LTPD to continue his service in 1966.
Chief Darmody began to climb the ranks at LTPD, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1968. In 1969, he was assigned to the Detective Bureau, becoming Detective Sergeant, prior to being promoted to Lieutenant in 1970. Following the retirement of Chief Patrick Geraghty (#1) in April of 1972, Chief Darmody was promoted to Chief of Police. He would become the youngest Chief of Police in Ocean County at age 32, at that time. Chief Darmody is the longest serving Chief of Police in Lacey Township history, as he served in this capacity from 1972, until his retirement in 2004.
During his career, he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from Stockton University, a Master of Arts Degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University, and was a Graduate of the 97th Session of the FBI National Academy.
The Lacey Township Police Department would not be what it is today, without Chief Darmody’s dedicated services, and passion for our community. His legacy will always be remembered, and carried on, by the men and women of this agency. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Madlyn, his children, and the Darmody Family, during this difficult time.
Chief Thomas R. Darmody III #6 (Retired)
June 6, 1939 – May 7, 2021
