Jerome T. "Jerry" Riordan

Jerome T. "Jerry" Riordan, 81 of Ipswich, formerly a long-time resident of Topsfield, died on Saturday, March 14th. Born in Salem on December 19, 1944, he was the son to the late Jerome T. Riordan and Kathleen (Landers) Riordan and beloved husband to Sharon (Legnard) Riordan.

Jerry was raised and educated in Salem. He went on to attend Providence College where he excelled in track before attaining his master's degree from the University of Connecticut.

He enlisted into the US Army on November 30, 1966, until his honorable discharge on March 20, 1968.

He was a well-respected social worker for the MA Department of Adoption and Foster Care. He took great pride in creating his own small business, delivering fresh caught fish to his many happy customers.

Jerry was a man who rarely met a stranger. He had a gift for striking up conversation and drawing in new and old friends alike with his warmth and genuine interest. He brought a lively energy to any gathering. When Jerry walked through the door, he lit up the room and brought the party to life with his fun-loving presence and sense of humor.

Family was the center of his life. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, playing games, sharing stories, and simply being together. He found joy in an active life and loved running, golfing, baseball and taking long walks with his dogs. Whatever the activity or circumstances, Jerry approached life with enthusiasm and a spirit of fun, always happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Sharon Riordan of Ipswich, his children; James Riordan of Ipswich and Margaret Newcomb and her husband Joseph Newcomb of Park City, UT and his grandchildren; Annie and Josie Newcomb.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by one sister, Martha Riordan Collins and his uncle, Martin Landers.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Rose of Lima Parish, 12 Park Street, Topsfield on Friday, March 20th at 11:30am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting Hour prior to the Mass will be held in the Parish Hall from 10:30am to 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jerry's memory may be made to: Alzheimer's Association, 320 Nevada St. #201, Newton, MA 02460. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.