Thomas M. Cuddy's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Detective Thomas M. Cuddy, who has left our world far too soon at the age of 55. A beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, godfather, nephew, cousin, friend, and public servant, Tommy leaves a legacy beyond what words could ever convey. It is impossible to capture the impact he made on all of our lives.
The youngest of seven siblings, Thomas Michael was born on November 4, 1969 in Boston to Elizabeth and James Cuddy. He embraced being the “baby” of the family with humor and heart, taking full advantage of this role his entire life. Not only were they his siblings, they were his first and best friends. Tommy built a tight knit group of friends throughout the years that were more like family. He brought a palpable energy and quick witted jokes into every room he entered. They were all blessed by his mischievous grin, sense of humor, incomparable laugh, and unwavering loyalty and devotion.
Tommy attended St. Patrick School where he sang in the choir, served as an altar boy, played street hockey at the Parish Center, and established lifelong friendships. He was a proud Reggie, starring at the Greater Lawrence Technical School as a tri-sport athlete in football, hockey, and track and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2009. Tommy continued his athletic career at Bridgewater State College but his devout faith led him to St. John’s Seminary, where he earned a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He later graduated with a master's degree in criminal justice from Curry College.
Tommy began his law enforcement career after graduating from the Lowell Police Academy in 2003. He proudly joined the Lawrence Police Department that same year, quickly distinguishing himself as a dedicated and dependable patrol officer. In 2006, he was transferred to the Community Policing Division, where he truly found his calling. With a natural ability to connect with people and a deep understanding of the city's challenges, Tommy built meaningful relationships with community leaders and residents alike. His efforts helped address complex issues through collaboration and coordination of city resources.
Recognized for his sincerity, empathy, and exceptional communication skills, Tommy was appointed Assistant to the Chief in 2008. In this role, he was entrusted with overseeing communication and community relations. His talent and effectiveness in the position were undeniable, and over the next decade, six consecutive police chiefs chose to retain him in that vital role. To many, Tommy became the trusted voice and public face of the Lawrence Police Department.
Tommy's deep love for the City of Lawrence was evident every single day he put on the uniform. He exemplified what it meant to be a great police officer — compassionate, courageous, and committed to making a difference. He mentored and inspired countless fellow officers, earning their admiration and respect.
When he was off duty, Tommy loved spending time with friends at Salisbury Beach or heading north to the lake with his family. His competitive spirit would shine with each round of 45s, Left, Right, Center, or Scat, where he was the ruler of the “annunciated knock.” Honoring his Irish roots, Tommy ran the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Lawrence and his booming, beautiful voice could be heard singing his favorite Irish songs across the Merrimack Valley. His epic Easter egg hunts were larger than life, just like him.
To his wife, Sheila, Tommy was a best friend with whom she shared over 24 years of marriage. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and memories that will be cherished forever. His children, Tommy Jr. and Rose, were the twinkle in his Irish eyes. He beamed with pride at their every accomplishment and boasted about Tommy Jr.'s music or how his Wild Irish Rose was “just like him.”
He also adored being “Uncle Tommy,” a title he wore like a badge of honor. His nieces and nephews will fondly remember his teasing warmth, playful banter, and the way he made each of them feel special. In recent years, he happily welcomed a new generation - his great-nieces and nephews - watching the family he loved continue to grow.
Tommy's legacy is an unforgettable one of love, laughter, service, and deep family roots. He leaves behind his beloved community of Lawrence and a family forever grateful for the moments they shared. He will be deeply missed and his memory will be eternal. “And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
Tommy was predeceased by his mother Elizabeth “Betty” Curran Cuddy and father James “Jim” Cuddy, as well as his brother James Cuddy. He is survived by his wife, Sheila Riccio Cuddy, and his children Thomas Michael Jr. and Rosemary Elizabeth Cuddy. He also leaves his brothers John and wife Kathy, Daniel and wife Coleen, sisters Susan and husband Joseph Couture, Maryellen and husband Paul Maccarone, Colleen and husband Albert Abraham; Mother-in-law Rosemary Riccio and partner Paul Gallant, Father-in-law Michael Riccio and partner Brenda DiStefano, Sisters-in-law Lisa and husband Randy Howe, Brenda and husband Donnie Curtin; Stepfather Edward Viel; Nieces and Nephews Brittany and husband Craig Cowen, Jonathan Couture and fiancé Christine, Elizabeth and husband Justin Colella, Ben Maccarone, Kelsea and husband Michael Lussier, Brian Dolan and wife Megan, Alyssa and husband Ben Basiliere, Jimmy Cuddy and wife Briana, Alexandra Howe, Madeline and husband Dan Martin, and Sadie and Jack Curtin. He was a loving godfather to Jonathan Couture, Leonard Degnan III, Addison Cook, and Evan Hebert. He will be greatly missed by his second family, The Cooks, as well as beloved aunts and uncles from the Curran and Cuddy families, treasured cousins, countless, lifelong friends, and loyal colleagues.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to call on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Saint Patrick Church, 118 South Broadway, Lawrence, MA.
His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in Saint Patrick Church, 118 South Broadway, Lawrence, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the educational GoFund Me for Tommy’s children. https://gofund.me/b5801e11.
Arrangements are under the direction of the John Breen Memorial Funeral Home, 122 Amesbury St., Lawrence, MA. For online condolences and other information, please visit www.breenfuneralhome.com.
Anyone wishing to participate in the funeral procession is asked to access the procession route via Salem Street and Blanchard Streets immediately following the Mass at St. Patrick Church.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?
