Edward James Lynett, Jr. passed away on Sunday, May 3rd, surrounded by his family. His wife is the former Lynda Mulligan. The couple would have celebrated sixty years of marriage in November.

Born in Scranton, son of the late Edward J. and Jean O’Hara Lynett, he was a graduate of the University of Scranton. In 1966 at the age of 24 he became editor and publisher of The Scranton Times, later retitled The Times-Tribune. Along with his brothers, George and William and sister, Cecelia he helped build Times Shamrock Communications into a major regional presence, reaching audiences in print and on the air.

A passionate newspaper man with “ink in his veins,” Edward loved the company and the people who worked beside him. He treated everyone with respect and empathy. He valued the opinions and suggestions of his employees and always credited them for the success of the family business.

During his half century in the industry, Edward served as President of the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association and Associated Press Association. In 2008 he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association.

Edward’s devotion to civic and philanthropic causes was evidenced by the many Boards on which he served, most recently as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Allied Services, The University of Scranton and The United Way of Lackawanna County. He was a member of the Board of Directors for Marywood University, Scranton Preparatory School and The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. He served as the 69th President of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Lackawanna County in 1975.

Edward was the life of the party. Known to many of his friends as “Tons of Fun” he never turned down a song request at family weddings and celebrations. His infamous trio included renditions of Mr. Touchdown, U.S.A.; Lindbergh (The Eagle of the U.S.A.) and his encore, Saloon. His infectious smile is what friends and family will remember most. His kindness toward others, friends and strangers alike, was one of his most defining traits. He was a true gentleman and a loyal confidant.

Above all, Edward was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Treasured for his warmth and love, he always made it a point to be present for all of their milestones and achievements. He loved and celebrated each one for their talents and personalities. He cherished every moment he spent with them, whether individually or on the many family vacations to Stone Harbor, Elk Lake, Disney World and the Caribbean.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his four children, Kathleen Rose and husband, Timothy, Scranton; Edward J. Lynett III, Lansdale; Robert J. Lynett and wife, Noelle, Scranton; Gregory E. Lynett and wife, Elena, Washington D.C. His brothers, George Lynett and his wife, Patricia, Scranton; and William Lynett and his wife, Mary Jean “Bean,” Clarks Summit.

He is also survived by 14 grandchildren who he adored, Madeline and fiancée, John Kerr, Timothy and his wife, Francesca, Kathleen, Rachael, and Patrick Rose, Robert, Jack, Quinn, Mackey, and Thomas Lynett, Delaney Lynett, Gregory, Corinne, and Hayden Lynett; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Cecelia and her husband James J. Haggerty and his brother-in-law, Gregory Mulligan.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Joseph P. Bannon, Dr. Meghan Haggerty and Dr. Lisa Thomas who provided guidance and comfort to Edward and his family. The family would also like to thank Laura Marion and the team at Allied Services for their extraordinary care and compassion.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. John Lapera on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at The Church of St. Gregory, 330 North Abington Road, Clarks Summit.

Friends may call Monday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the church.

Interment, St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow.

Memorial contributions may be made to Allied Services Hospice,100 Abington Executive Park, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.

Arrangements have been entrusted to and are under the care and direction of the Vanston & James Funeral Home, Scranton.