Gilbert Lynch

Gilbert was born in Monaghan, Ireland, on December 30, 1956. A proud Irishman, he emigrated to New York in 1976 but always remained deeply connected to his Irish roots, returning home whenever he could. In 1980, he married the love of his life, Mary O’Dea. Together, they bought their first home in Edgewater Park in the Bronx and began raising their family. Sheelagh was born in 1981, Eamon in 1983, and Tara in 1985. Gilbert was a proud and devoted father and husband.

Before joining the NYPD, Gilbert worked for the 608 Carpenters Union. He joined the New York City Police Department in 1985 and retired as a detective in 2001. During his career, he also put his driving skills to work, driving a bus for the MTA and later for Ramapo Central Schools.

In 1985, Gilbert and Mary made two decisions that would shape their family’s life for years to come. They moved to Sloatsburg, where they raised their children and formed lasting friendships with their neighbors on Lincoln Street. They also purchased a bungalow in the Four Green Fields in the Catskills, where they made lifelong friends and countless memories every summer since.

After retiring from the NYPD, Gilbert spent much of his time in Florida, where he could often be found socializing at the Sterling Village pool. Florida also meant special visits with Molly and Jack, who loved visiting Poppy for trips to the beach and the Banana Boat.

Gilbert loved a party, never missed a chance to tell a joke or show off his moves on the dance floor, and had a way of making things more fun simply by being there. He was also someone people could count on. Whether it was a longtime friend, a former colleague, or someone he barely knew, if someone needed help, Gilbert showed up. He was always just a phone call away. Gilbert never encountered a stranger.

Gilbert was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary; his parents, Michael and Bridget Lynch; and his parents-in-law, Edmond and Beatrice O’Dea. He is survived by his son, Eamon Lynch; his daughters, Tara Lynch and Sheelagh Robb; his son-in-law, Kyle Robb; and his grandchildren, Molly and Jack Robb. He is also survived by his sister, Jovita Breen (Declan); his brother, Owen Lynch (Iris); his brothers-in-law Martin O’Dea, Eddie O’Dea (Lorraine) and Danny O’Dea along with several wonderful nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held Monday, October 19, 2026 from 4-8PM at Wanamaker and Carlough Funeral Home, 177 Rt. 59 Suffern, NY. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 10:30AM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 32 Eagle Valley Road Sloatsburg, NY. Bural will follow at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, NY.

Gilbert will be deeply missed by his family; his many friends in Four Green Fields, Sterling Village, and at his favorite establishment Characters; his former NYPD colleagues; and all those whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and friendship.