Guy Cleary, 1954–2026, Ret. Waltham Police Officer

Guy J. Cleary, a retired Waltham Police Officer and a man defined by his steadfast commitment to his community, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at his residence in Waltham. He was 71 years old.

Born on Oct. 30, 1954, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Guy was the son of the late Joseph and Theresa Cleary. Guy was raised and educated in Waltham, the city that became the cornerstone of his life’s work and legacy. Guy attended Waltham Vocational High School, after which time he enlisted in the U.S. Army. During his enlistment, he served honorably, spending most of his time stationed in Germany.

Upon his honorable discharge and return to Waltham, Guy began a multi-faceted career within the city. He initially owned and operated a taxicab, navigating the streets he would later protect, and subsequently worked the night watch as a security officer for Raytheon.

In 1979, Guy was appointed as a Patrolman with the Waltham Police Department. For the next 23 years, he served the City of Waltham with distinction and integrity. Guy was known among his peers as a reliable and professional officer, and he was well-regarded by the residents he encountered on his daily patrols. His retirement in 2002 marked the end of a long and decorated career, but his spirit of entrepreneurship continued. He went on to own and operate “GJC Pest Control,” allowing him to remain active and deeply engaged with the local community he loved.

Guy was a devoted Catholic and a faithful parishioner of Saint Mary’s Church. He was also a proud veteran and a longtime member of the Joseph F. Hill American Legion Post #156. Outside of his professional and civic duties, Guy was an avid reader and a student of history, with a particular expertise in the American Civil War. He took great pride in participating in historical reenactments, viewing them as a way to preserve and share the lessons of the past.

Guy was the beloved husband of the late Patricia (Monaghan) Cleary, with whom he shared many wonderful years. He was the devoted father of five children: Shannon A. Saleh and Colleen E. Cleary, both of Florida; Patrick J. Cleary of Burlington; Kevin Cleary of Brighton; and Somerville Police Officer Michael J. Cleary of Billerica.

He was the proud and cherished grandfather of McKenzie, Sophia, Adam, Noah, Colin, Ella, Kevin Jr. and Vera. Guy found immense joy in his grandchildren and cherished every moment spent in their company. Guy is also survived by his dear siblings, Gail Pickell of Merrimack, Cathy Kalayjian of Leominster, Kim Cleary of Burlington and Jay Cleary of Waltham; and his sister-in-law, Carol Cormier, and her husband Ronald of Hudson, MA. He was predeceased by his siblings Johnny Jamer, Karen Jamer, and Joyce Casella.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate Guy’s life during visiting hours in the Brasco & Sons Memorial Funeral Home, 773 Moody Street, Waltham on Friday morning March 6, from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. This will be followed by a mass of Christian burial at Saint Mary’s Church, 145 School Street, Waltham, at 1 p.m. Burial, with Waltham Police Department and U.S. Army Honors will follow at Mount Feake Cemetery in Waltham.