Longtime Derry police chief Edward B. Garone died Tuesday, less than two weeks after his retirement.

Garrone, who had been chief in Derry since 1972 until his retirement on September 30, passed away after a lengthy illness, according to the department.  His wife Blanche and children were at his side.

The chief began his law enforcement career in Lebanon in 1964 before coming to Derry.  He is believed to have been the longest serving police chief in the United States.

Garone was a member of the U.S. Marines, and worked with a variety of organizations in Derry including the Rotary and the Boys and Girls Club, according to the Derry News.

"I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of retired Derry Police Chief Ed Garone. Chief Garone served his community, state, and country with honor, and his legacy will be felt for years to come," Rep. Chris Pappas wrote on his campaign Twitter account. "My thoughts are with his family and all who knew him."

Edward B. Garone and wife Blanche at his retirement
Edward B. Garone and wife Blanche at his retirement (Derry Police)
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State Senate President Chuck Morse said that he and wife Susan sent condolences. Morse was part of the commemoration of Garone's 50 years as chief.

"We are saddened by this loss but take comfort in knowing Chief Garone’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered through his lasting contributions and sacrifice to the town of Derry," Morse said in a tweet.

"Deepest and sincere condolences from our family," state Rep. Elle Gallo wrote.

"Our deepest sympathies to the Garone family as well as our brothers and sisters at the Derry PD. Rest easy Chief," the Seabrook Police Department wrote in the comments of the Derry department's Facebook page.

"Rest peacefully, Chief. It was a pleasure to know you at the Derry Boys Club and at the Derry Veterans Assistance Fund groups. You will be missed by everyone," Anne Cherniack wrote in the comments.

"To say we are all broken-hearted would be an understatement. It has been such an honor and blessing knowing you for these last 20 years. I will miss your easy laugh, sense of humor and bear hugs... You were truly one-in-a-million... rest in peace Chief. Sending love and prayers to Blanche and the rest of his family," Kimberly Trull wrote.

"Rest in Peace, Chief. You taught me so much over the years and have touched so many lives. Thank you, sir," Christopher Warn wrote.

Police headquarters was named after Garone in June.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH

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