12-03-2025
Passaic County law enforcement leader with 52 years of service has died at 74
Robert A. Lyons Sr., a law enforcement leader in Passaic County whose career spanned more than five decades, died on Tuesday at his home in Ringwood. He was 74.
Lyons spent 52 years in public service, beginning in 1969 with the Paterson Police Department. He worked as a patrolman and dispatcher before joining the Passaic County Park Police in 1975. There, he played a key role in officer training, specializing in advanced first aid and emergency response tactics.
His expertise led him to the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office in 1979, where he served as an investigator and later became an instructor for the state's Police Training Commission.
During his lengthy career, Lyons was the head of the New Jersey's Police Training Commission, the state's Police Academy Directors Association and a member of the state chapter of the FBI National Academy, according to county records. Pat Lepore, the director of the Passaic County Board of Commissioners, said he was also a true friend to the community.
"He dedicated an awful lot to those of us here in Passaic County, and he will be missed," Lepore said.
Throughout his career, Lyons was known for his emphasis on education and preparedness. After retiring as a lieutenant in 2001, he became the director of the Passaic County Police Academy. There, he spent the next two decades shaping the next generation of law enforcement officers.
Under his leadership, the academy expanded its curriculum, forged partnerships with local colleges and introduced specialized training programs that set a new standard for police education in the region. His work earned widespread recognition, culminating in 2022 when the county renamed the facility the Robert A. Lyons Police Academy in his honor. It became just the second county police academy in New Jersey named after an individual.
Beyond the academy, Lyons played a crucial role in public safety through his work with the Passaic County Office of Emergency Management. As coordinator, he oversaw disaster preparedness and response, working closely with state and local agencies to navigate severe weather events and emergencies. Colleagues said his ability to bring order to chaotic situations and his commitment to interagency collaboration cemented his reputation as a trusted leader in law enforcement.
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Lyons had been described as a dedicated mentor, a steady presence and a positive influence on the officers he trained. He was also deeply involved in his community, particularly through his faith at St. Catherine of Bologna Catholic Church in Ringwood.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 14, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the church at 112 Erskine Road, Ringwood. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will be private.
This article originally appeared on Passaic County Police Academy retired Director Robert Lyons dies at 74
