Michael James Crowley

1959 - 2023

Mystic - Michael James Crowley, 64, of Mystic passed away Nov. 20, 2023. Michael was born June 26, 1959, in Worcester, Mass., the youngest of five children (Claudia who predeceased Michael), John, Maureen, and Cathy) to the late John and Edna (Wheeler) Crowley.

His passion in life was his family. He is survived by his wife, Leslie; sons, Philip (Caitlin), Ryan, and Griffin; his daughter, Molly; and two grandchildren, Madison and Philip Jr. Mike loved watching his children grow, never missing a game or event. Mike was a parishioner and lector at St. Patrick Church in Mystic and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Mike's other passion was his career. He spent his entire career in Law Enforcement, beginning with the Hartford Police Department. Mike moved to southeastern Connecticut and joined the Town of Groton Police Department. He began his career in Groton as a Patrolman and rose through the ranks holding the titles of Acting-Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief, then ultimately, he served as Chief of Police before retiring after almost 29 years of service. While with the Groton Town Police Department, Mike was part of the initial group of Officers assigned to the Mountain Bike Unit, along with being a member of the Dive Team, Marine Patrol, and the Special Operations Group. Additionally, Mike was assigned to the Eastern District Statewide Narcotics Unit, temporarily assigned as an Investigator with the New London State's Attorney's Office and was a graduate of the 2013 session of the FBI National Academy. As a Police Officer, Mike received several commendations, including a Medal for Bravery, Unit Citations, and Meritorious Service Awards. To say that police work was his life is an understatement. He loved his job.

A noon service will be held Friday, Nov. 24, at the Mystic Funeral Home located on Route 1 in Mystic. Following the service, Michael will be buried at St. Patrick Cemetery, River Rd. Mystic. His family will receive relatives and friends starting at 10 a.m. Friday up until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.