Edward Gerald Hillery Jr., 85, of Boynton Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025. A husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and respected law enforcement leader (ID#216), he dedicated his life to serving his country and community with honor and integrity.

Born April 18, 1940, Edward served honorably in the United States Air Force before beginning a distinguished career in law enforcement. He started with the West Orange Police Department as an

investigator with the Essex County Prosecutor's Office. He later joined the Boynton Beach Police Department, where he rose through the ranks during 23 and a half years of service, retiring as Chief of Police on March 31, 1993.

Not wasting any time, Edward began as Chief of Police at the Ocean Ridge Police Department the very next day, April 1, 1993. He led the department for 17 years until his retirement on March 31, 2010.

Chief Hillery was known for his leadership, innovation, and dedication to public safety. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the communities he served. One memorable moment included enlisting the help of a psychic in a murder investigation, an unconventional move that later proved eerily accurate.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marina Hillery, who passed away in July 2024.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Putnik, and her husband Jim Putnik; his son, Sean Hillery, and Sean's wife Michelle Hillery. Edward was a proud grandfather to his four grandchildren: Noelle and Eric Putnik, and Kaden and Cameron Hillery. He is also survived by his brothers, Gregg Hillery and Dean Hillery and first wife Rosemary Hillery.

A memorial service will be held on May 31, 2025, at Boynton Memorial Chapel at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project in Edward's memory.

Chief Hillery's legacy of service and commitment to justice will long be remembered by all who knew him.