John N. Melia, 81, retired Massachusetts State Police Lieutenant and a longtime resident of Tewksbury, peacefully passed away at the Atrium in Chelmsford on Thursday, April 25, 2024. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Linda J. (Conaty) Melia, who passed away in 2020 after 42 years of marriage.
John was born on February 24, 1943, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the son of the late Patrick N. Melia and Helen (Walsh) Melia. He was raised and educated in the Cambridge and Arlington areas, graduating from Rindge Technical School with the Class of 1961. During his time there, he distinguished himself as a standout catcher on the baseball team. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country for four years before receiving an honorable discharge.
Following his military service, John embarked on a career in law enforcement. He started as a police officer with the Massachusetts Metropolitan District Commission Police, which later merged into the Massachusetts State Police. John continued his service, eventually ascending to the rank of Lieutenant. Throughout his 42 years with the State Police, Lieutenant Melia earned a reputation as a fair and principled officer who was dedicated to the police force. Despite the challenges of his line of work, his love for his job never wavered. John pursued higher education, studying at Anna Maria College and Northeastern University, ultimately earning a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice.
During his retirement, John developed a passion for golf, often spending his days on the course. He loved meeting up with the guys at his favorite course, Hillview in North Reading, where he even achieved a hole in one. When he wasn't teeing off, he could typically be found reading the newspaper in his lazy boy with cookies in hand and some cold iced tea nearby. John spent his summers floating in the Gulf of Mexico at his favorite spot in Treasure Island, FL. He loved to be surrounded by his family at his favorite table under the palm tree sharing more cookies with his daughters and eventually his grandchildren.
John was man of few words, which made him a perfect match for his wife Linda, who he fondly referred to as the boss. Renowned for his easy going demeanor, he embraced life with a relaxed attitude. John was an amazing father who spoiled his daughters with fun and countless memories, but where he really shined was in his role as Papa. He never missed an opportunity to see his grandchildren, showing up at doctor appointments, baseball games, dance recitals, and trips to the park.
He is survived by his two daughters, Coleen McLaughlin and her husband, Mike of Chelmsford, and Caitlyn McCarthy and her husband, Bill of Nashua, NH; his five grandchildren, Bridget, Sean, Molly, Patrick and Delaney; his two sisters, Eileen Levesque and Barbara Ferguson, both of Phoenix, AZ; and his brother in law, Robert Conaty of N. Hampton, NH.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the residents and staff at the Atrium in Chelmsford for their exceptional care and compassion throughout John's final years. The Atrium became more than just a residence; it became his home, thanks to the warmth and support provided by all who were part of the community.
Memorial donations in John's memory may be made to: Alzheimer's Association at: Alzheimer's Donation Link
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024 all are welcome to attend his calling hours from 4-7 p.m. at Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury 978-851-2061.
His funeral procession will begin on Thursday morning at approximately 9 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by procession to St. William of York Church, 1351 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA for a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass. Procession will follow for burial at Tewksbury Cemetery with full military honors and in coordination with the MA State Police.