Former Swampscott Police Captain Joe McHugh died at his home in Fort Myers, Florida on June 3. He was 97.

“The family and friends of Capt. McHugh are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” the Swampscott Police Department wrote in a Facebook post. “RIP Sir. Thank you for your years of service to the town.”

Born in Lynn, McHugh served in the United States Marine Corps and was a veteran of the Korean War. After his military service, he joined the Swampscott Police Department, where he served for 30 years. 

Tributes on the Swampscott Police Department’s Facebook post remembered McHugh as “the very best” and “such a great guy.”

He was an active member of Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Swampscott, according to his obituary. McHugh had served on the Parish Council and as a Eucharistic Minister. 

When he moved to Florida, he continued his faith work as a member of the Saint Columbkille Catholic Church in Fort Myers. 

He was a 4th degree member of the Division 10 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Lynn, where he held multiple leadership positions at the division, county and state levels. McHugh was also an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus.

Known for his carpentry skills, McHugh ran his own business for many years. He also enjoyed coast-boating, fishing and lobstering. 

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary Alice McHugh. Together, they raised eight children, two of whom still reside in Swampscott. 
“A strong leader with a compassionate heart, Joe often extended quiet acts of kindness that left lasting impressions on those around him,” McHugh’s obituary reads. “May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all who knew him. We will miss him dearly.”