Edward J. Tierney, more affectionately known as “EJ,” was born on September 7, 1952, in Inwood, New York, the youngest of four children to Robert and Eleanor Tierney.

He attended Good Shepherd Grammar School and went on to play four years of basketball at All Hallows High School. He later earned his degree in physical education from CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx.

EJ was a devoted family man. He married the love of his life, Norine, in September 1986, and in January 1999, the two traveled to China to bring home their adopted daughter, Allyson. He took great joy in family gatherings, especially hosting AFC/NFC Championship parties and welcoming loved ones to their home in Long Beach Island, New Jersey.

EJ embraced life with energy and heart. He loved running marathons, boogie boarding, skiing, bike riding, and had a black belt in karate. He was an avid hockey player, competing in multiple leagues over the years, and rarely missed a chance to hit the ice. He also loved cheering on the New York Rangers and often went to games. He enjoyed indulging in Mike and Ikes and his absolute favorite, Häagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream which had to be microwaved for 20 seconds. He had a playful spirit and gifted everyone he met with a nickname, a small but memorable gesture that left a lasting impression. In fact, he used them so regularly that his family often only knew people by the nicknames he gave them.

In his early years, EJ worked as both a UPS and Coca-Cola driver before finding his lifelong calling. On July 11, 1981, he began his career with the FDNY. Over the next 36 years, he rose through the ranks, ultimately serving as a battalion chief. His courage and leadership earned him four individual medals and five unit citations for acts of bravery. EJ was known for his hands-on approach and, no matter his title, if there was a fire he was side by side with his men.

He responded to several major events throughout his career, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the rescue and recovery efforts following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center. In February 2017, EJ was diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer, leading to his retirement on September 7, 2017, his 65th birthday.

EJ kept his positive spirit and continued to do the activities he loved. He’d often say, “Motion is lotion,” and he truly lived by it. EJ passed away on February 20, 2022, surrounded by his family. He is deeply missed by all who knew him. His life was of courage, love, laughter, and legacy. A life well lived, and a man so deeply admired.