It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Robert Emmett.
The 58-year-old passed away peacefully at his home in Park Ridge, New Jersey on Tuesday, October 20, 2020.
He is survived by his two daughters, Nicole Emmett, 32, and Heather Emmett, 28, who both live in Atlanta, Ga., his parents, Beverly Emmett, and Charles Emmett, and his siblings, Sue Oliver, and Douglas Emmett.
Jeff proudly served as a patrolman for the Westwood Police Department for 25 years before retiring in 2011. He enjoyed helping and serving people, and often worked traffic patrol on his days off.
During his career in the Westwood Police Department, he received an apprehension award and a lifesaving award.
He began his career with a Bachelor of Science degree from William Paterson University and continued to attend training sessions.
In March 2000, he was assigned as the department's child safety passenger technician, helping people with proper installation of car seats in vehicles.
“It's been an honor and a privilege to serve the residents of Westwood," Emmett said during a recognition ceremony prior to his retirement in 2011. "In my heart, I'm truly glad I was there over the years to assist the residents in their time of crisis and their time of need."
Jeff loved fishing, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the New Jersey Devils, Ocean City, Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and The Park Ridge Diner.
The first concert he attended was the Allman Brothers, setting the tone for his solid taste in music. His favorite artists were Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, R.E.M. and Z.Z. Top.
A huge history buff, he could tell you every detail of every battle of every war, and why it mattered.
He watched Star Trek every night at 8 p.m. and called it his “favorite hour of the day.”
Jeff’s first job was as a lifeguard in high school, setting the tone for a life of caring for the safety of others. He will be incredibly missed and is eternally loved.
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” – C.S. Lewis
The family will host an intimate, socially-distanced memorial service at Jeff’s childhood church on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Midland Park Methodist Church, 269 Godwin Ave, Midland Park, NJ 07432.
In lieu of flowers donations in Jeff’s name may be made to the Westwood PBA Local 206, 101 Washington Ave, Westwood, NJ 07675 or the The Valley Hospital, 223 North Van Dien Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450.
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