LAWRENCE — Tow trucks were lit up, police stood by and a bagpiper played on Marston Street on Saturday night as the body of Frank Coady was escorted past his business and then to a funeral home.
Coady, 74, the owner of Coady’s Garage & Towing Service at 139 Marston St., died Saturday. He was nationally known for his towing service and abundantly charitable nature.
“Tonight our Commander, Frank Coady, lost a hard fought battle with Alzheimer’s. Frank changed lives, all the while doing what he loved,” the Coady family wrote in a post on the company’s Facebook page. “They say ‘the meaning of life is to find your gift, the purpose of life is to give it away’. Frank will continue to give in more ways than we can measure.”
Coady was inducted into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame on Sept. 28, 2024. The honor recognized Coady’s professional milestones and philanthropic dedication.
“For over 50 years Frank Coady has been an innovator, proven his exemplary dedication to the towing industry, exuded leadership to everyone, and has certainly had a lasting effect on the towing Industry and thousands of professionals with whom he has crossed paths,” according to the Hall of Fame induction announcement.
Coady grew up in North Andover, the oldest of seven children. He attended Catholic schools and then pleaded with his parents to allow him to attend Lawrence Vocational School.
In a 2024 interview with The Eagle-Tribune, Coady said he dedicated his life to the profession he loves.
He said the Hall of Fame honor represented his personal journey but the collaborative efforts of his incredible team.
“Both my towing family and my immediate family, who have put up with my long hours, missing holidays and events due to roadside emergencies, have also earned this award.
They have both been by my side from the beginning. It’s been my honor to be able to do what I love and also be able to give back to so many, helping in any way I can,” he said.
Retired state police Lt. Edward Johnson of Methuen played the bagpipes Saturday night on Marston Street.
“If you ever needed something and Frank could help, he did, and he absolutely refused to take anything in return,” Johnson said.
“During any storm, the Coady’s garage office was always open to warm up, dry off, get a cup of coffee or grab something to eat. I could go on and on, but if you knew Frank, I don’t have to tell you. There aren’t many people left like Frank, and to say he will be missed is an understatement. … Alzheimer’s may have taken you, but you will never be forgotten.
Funeral arrangements were unavailable Sunday.
Follow staff reporter Jill Harmacinski on Twitter @EagleTribJill and on Threads at jillyharma.