"Dear Judy and Michael, I am saddened to just learn of the passing of my first cousin and brother law enforcement officer. My condolences to you and your family. I have many nice memories of our family holiday times at Memere & Pepere?s. Your cousin, Dan Sirois (retired Lt. EPPD). "
In loving memory of
Dennis C Seale
December 15, 1954 - March 10, 2023
Former Portsmouth Police Chief Dennis C. Seale, 68, died peacefully on March 10, 2023, at Newport Hospital surrounded by family and friends after a short battle with cancer.
Dennis was born in Newport on Dec. 15, 1954, to Collette (Sirois) Seale and Gene R. Seale. He was raised on Aquidneck Island and called Portsmouth home for all of his life.
After graduating from Portsmouth High School, he later went on to earn a degree at the Southern New England School of Law, which served as the foundation for his long career in law enforcement.
His 24 years of dedication to the Portsmouth Police Department began in 1982. He was first hired as an animal control officer, which makes sense when you consider his love for all animals. His career path then led him through positions as a patrolman, corporal, detective, lieutenant and deputy chief, before he was ultimately promoted to chief in 1998. He served as the town's top cop for eight years until he retired in 2006.
Behind the uniform, Dennis always had an eye on his true loves, which were family, friends and travel. He took yearly trips up to Prince Edward Island in Canada, and was always open to advice about where to stay and places to visit along the way. Closer to home, he also enjoyed relaxing days in the sun at McCorrie Point Beach in Portsmouth.
Anyone who knew Dennis was well aware of his softer side. He was a guy who would drop anything to help anyone and was a strong advocate for animals in need. He especially loved his cats; and Beezer, his "little buddy" is surely by his side right now.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Paul A. Seale, Roger J.Seale, and , Dawn M. Seale (Bucholz).
He is survived in life by his sister, Judith Leduc of Portsmouth, her daughter, Dawn Pagliaro and husband, Gregory, and their children, Isabella and Bianca; as well as his brother, Michael Seale and wife Judy, of Bristol, her son Jimmy Correia and wife kerrie, and several of his nieces and nephews will miss him dearly.
He also is survived by his loving companion of 10 years, Joan LeClair of Swansea, Mass, and her family. Daughter Caitlin and Michael Moloney of Warren, and daughter Abby and Justin Jeffers of Swansea.
"Grampy Den Den" will also forever be a shining light of inspiration for his four young grandchildren, Juliana, Michael, Gage, and Jameson.
Dennis had an engaging and fun personality that will continue to bring smiles to the faces of his countless friends, former colleagues and many acquaintances he has made and impact on along his way.
Per Dennis' request, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Potter League for Animals, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown, 02842, or Visiting Nurse Home and Hospice, 1184 East Main Road, Portsmouth, 02871.
Tributes
"I remember when we were in our teens. I also remember the years in law enforcement and later in law school. My Dad Tony and you loved each other. You and he would hang out and share stories. You were good hearted and teased in a kind way. You will be missed by all. Rest in peace. Debbie Vierra "
"It was with great sorrow to hear of Dennis passing, Dennis was a good friend and always enjoyed his company when we would run into each other. Dennis was a Cop's Cop, and will be truly missed, my deepest sympathy to his family. RIP Chief"
"Deepest condolences to Dennis? family on the passing of a truly wonderful man and great community leader. Chief Seale was such an asset to Portsmouth and all who knew him. Dennis was a kind friend and advocate to my mother when she really needed a hero. I enjoyed working for him on Portsmouth Police and I cherish fond memories of fun times spent with Chief Seale, most recently at the 100 Year Celebration of the founding of Portsmouth Police. Deborah Bessette PPD Retired"
"A great person. Always willing to listen and help. Will be missed. Extend sincere sympathy."
"What a great man. RIP my friend."
"What a great man. RIP my friend. "
"My sincerest condolences to all who loved Dennis. He had such a kind and generous heart. He helped me and so many other people. A loving man who gave so much to his community, family, and friends. RIP Dennis ?"
"To Judy and Family, My sincerest condolences for the loss of Dennis. He was a great guy and always very kind to my family and I. It was always nice running into him in the community and talking about old times. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. May he rest in peace."
"Denny... great and funny man. I'm saddened to hear of his passing, but I cherish the memories I have of us during our years at P.P.D., great brotherhood, great laughs and definitely there for someone in need. God Speed, thank you for your service. ?"
"Words cannot describe how much I was when I learned of the loss of Dennis He was my friend and commrad in arms and is already greatly missed and even heaven has improved with his presence there. We have lost a patriot today. J.L. Sullivan Newport P.D (retired)"
"Dennis has been a wonderful and much loved neighbor? we have always felt safe in our home, knowing that he had his eyes on the neighborhood! Dennis always looked out for my grandfather, who lived here before I did, and we have been so gray and blessed to call him a friend and neighbor. We loved catching up with Dennis, whether on our porch, or down the street at the beach; he is already very much missed as a fixture in our neighborhood. I can recall so many times when Dennis was kind and compassionate with our children, our youngest, in particular, who loved pushing his lawnmower around ?just like Dennis? in the summer. Our dogs also adored him! Dennis was a true friend, and an animal, lover, and things feel very different without him. To all of his friends and family, we are sure you already know just what a spectacular and wonderful human being. Dennis was! I am confident that he is catching up with his pets, family, and my grandfather in heaven."
"Farewell Dennis! We will forever miss you. The ?wonder years? at Portsmouth High School beginning in 7th grade were the best especially with all your funny antics! Laughter was plentiful. We thank you for your leadership as Chief. You were the best of the best. Our deepest condolences to Judy and all family members. Raymond and Deborah Dutra "
"To Dennis's family, Joan and her family, We would like offer our sincere condolences. Karen & Scott Duncan"
"My brother Dennis spent countless days sitting on the front porch with me having our coffee. I will miss that so much. Love you Dennis????"
"Under that tough look was a big softy underneath, going to miss our ?chit chats? at Cumbys in the mornings, Rest In Peace "