Kevin J. “Big Daddy” Moylan, 59, of Atlantic Highlands, passed away Nov. 12, 2025. He was born in Summit and was a cherished lifelong resident of Atlantic Highlands. Rooted deeply and raised along the idyllic streets in the community he adored, he was proud to call both Atlantic Highlands and Highlands his home; there he grew into a man whose devotion to others guided every chapter of his life.
A dedicated and proud member of the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, he served with honor, compassion and unwavering integrity for more than 27 years. His commitment to protecting and uplifting those around him was not simply a career; it was a calling he fulfilled with dignity and heart.
Even after retirement, his desire to give back never waned. Answering that enduring sense of purpose, he joined the Highlands Police Department, taking on the role of In-School Resource Officer at Highlands Elementary School. There, his kindness, humor and gentle leadership became a daily gift to students, staff and families. He was a guardian, a mentor and a friend – someone who made children feel safe, seen and valued, protecting, guiding and encouraging young minds with warmth and humor. Students, parents and staff alike quickly learned that with him, you didn’t just gain a helping hand, you gained a friend. His presence in those halls was a steady reminder that true service extends beyond duty; it lives in every moment of connection and care.
He was, above all else, a family man – devoted, present and endlessly proud. At the center of his world was his family. His son, Braeden, and his wife, Michelle, were his pride, his joy, and his greatest source of happiness. He lived every day with them in his heart, celebrating their achievements, supporting their dreams, and filling their lives with laughter, adventure and unwavering love.
As a big brother, his devotion to family was further demonstrated in the strong bond he shared with his siblings John, Kelly and JodiLynn. A man who treasured tradition, he made every birthday, holiday and family gathering feel magical – full of energy, warmth and the unmistakable feeling that being together was the greatest celebration of all.
His love extended far beyond his home, touching friends old and new with the same sincerity and larger-than-life spirit. He had a gift for making connections, for making people feel welcome. And, in true fashion, he never allowed a “quick chat” to remain quick; there truly was no such thing as a five-minute conversation with him. Genuinely interested in how your day was going, he had stories to tell, jokes to share and a way of turning even a brief encounter into a memory worth keeping.
A man of faith, he was a parishioner of St. Agnes Church, where he found comfort, community and spiritual grounding throughout his life. His faith shaped his compassion, his humility and the gentle way he approached others.
He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hiking, traveling and golf. From the rivers and beaches to the wooded trails and winding roads, nature was his sanctuary where he found peace and joy. Kevin was a life member of the Highlands Rod and Sports Club.
His legacy lives on in every life he touched, in the memories made, and in the warmth he shared so freely.
May he rest peacefully, forever surrounded by the beauty, love, and laughter he gave so freely.
Surviving are his wife of 20 years, Michelle (née Santiago); son Braeden; brother John and his partner Cindy Wilson; sisters, Kelly and JodiLynn; aunt Traci; sister-in-Law Melissa and brother-In-law Julian; brother-in-law Orlando and sister-in-law Dana; and nephews and nieces, David, Danica, Hailey, Landan, Marek, Jack, Victoria, LenaJae, William, Kai, Tessa and James.
Kevin was preceded in death by his loving parents, Terence and Barbara Moylan.
A funeral liturgy was offered Nov. 19 at St. Agnes Church, Atlantic Highlands. Burial followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Kevin’s name to the many local associations supporting those in need: schools and programs for children; green space; law enforcement; or financial support for families enduring medical challenges.
The article originally appeared in the November 27 – December 3, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
