Major Edward Manocchia
May 11, 2010 – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Maj Edward R. Manocchia, Sr. on May 8, 2010.Ed was sworn in as a patrolman on April 28, 1958; promoted to Sergeant on May 16, 1966, Promoted to Lieutenant on July 29, 1969; promoted to Captain on September 29, 1977; promoted to Major on August 1, and retired on September 1, 1987. He was the husband of Jean (Gustafson) Manocchia. Besides his wife, he is survived by his four children; Gail (Michael) Calvitto of Johnston, Donna (Gary) Pagel of Harrison, Maine, and Carol Smith and Edward R. (Lorna) Manocchia Jr., both of Cranston. He also leave ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Ed was a bright man earning a Bachelor’s Degree from Providence College magna cum laude and an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Roger Williams also magna cum laude. In addition to being a co-founder of the Cranston Police Union I.B.P.O. #301, he also established a reputation as a skillful polygraph examiner. During these interviews, “Edward the Confessor” would make the subjects feel so comfortable that they would be forthcoming with all sorts of details. Despite his gruff exterior Ed was a fun-loving man with a heart of gold. In addition to being a masterful joke teller, Ed loved to play practical jokes, a passion he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He lived his life by these personal beliefs: Always leave them laughing; and, most importantly to Ed, his “Rule #3” – Never take yourself too seriously. He will be greatly missed.