FRANKLIN: Uxbridge Police Officer Stephen A. LaPorta [Services in Franklin, See Public Safety Info Here]

Stephen A. LaPorta of Uxbridge, Badge #31, a member of the Uxbridge Police Department, passed away tragically on January 7, 2026, at the age of 43.

He was the beloved husband of Shannon (Carney) LaPorta for 17 years and a devoted father to Matthew LaPorta of Uxbridge. He was the cherished son of Andrew and Katina (Sangermano) LaPorta of Franklin, and the loving son-in-law of Christopher and Donna Carney of Millbury. Stephen is also survived by many other loving relatives, close friends, and fellow police officers.

Stephen proudly dedicated his life to public safety. He began his career as a dispatcher in Mendon while also serving as a part-time police officer. He later continued his service in Uxbridge as a dispatcher and part-time police officer, and also served as a part-time police officer with the Millville Police Department. In 2024, Stephen achieved a lifelong dream when he was sworn in as a full-time police officer with the Uxbridge Police Department, proudly serving as Badge #31. His family and the department deeply mourn his loss and honor his unwavering commitment, service, and dedication to the community.

Outside of his career, Stephen was known as a kind, selfless, and compassionate person who always put others before himself. Whether with his family, friends, or colleagues, he was someone people could rely on, always willing to lend a hand, offer support, or simply be there when needed. He found great joy in spending time with his loved ones and creating lasting memories.

Stephen was an avid Boston sports fan who proudly supported the Bruins, Patriots, and Red Sox, never missing an opportunity to cheer on his teams. He also had a deep love for music and was a devoted fan of Kenny Chesney, enjoying his music whenever he could. These passions reflected Stephen’s warm spirit and appreciation for life beyond his service.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday from 2:00–6:00 PM at St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.

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Local Impacts: Expect traffic delays and parking challenges. Schools and Senior Center Closing Early. See details, below.

The following information pertains to the upcoming wake and funeral services for Officer
Stephen A. LaPorta. A significant police presence is expected in the vicinity of St. Mary’s
Church and the Franklin Town Common during these services. Road closures and traffic
detours will be in effect.
Residents and motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes and avoid the area if possible.
We recognize that these disruptions may be inconvenient, particularly for those who live nearby,
and we sincerely appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation.
Your understanding and support will help ensure a dignified and respectful farewell for Officer
LaPorta and his family.

Wake:
St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin, MA, Wednesday, January 14th, from 2p-6p.
Church square and surrounding streets will be closed from approximately 11am - 7pm.
Funeral:
St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin, MA, Thursday, January 15 at 11am. Church
square and surrounding streets will be closed from approximately 9am - 2pm.
Road Closures:
 Church Square
 Beaver St from West Central St to Church Square
 Union St from School St to Church Square
 Daniel McCahill St. from Church Square to Senior Center
 Main St from School St to Highland St
 Pleasant St from Moore Ave/Hillside Rd to Church Square
 Crescent St, Garfield, Martin, and Queen will be limited access
Parking / Staging Areas:
 Public Parking:
o Davis Thayer School, 109 W. Central Street, Franklin;\

o Dean College Campus Center lot (located next to Davis Thayer on W. Central
Street);
o Dean College Jones Lot off of School Street;
o Dean Hall Lot off of Emmons Street
Shuttle buses will be provided for those with difficulty walking.
 Police Staging (Officers will be bused to church):
o 55 Constitution Blvd, Franklin
o Wake staging opens at 10am. Busing starts at 11am. Police walk through is at
1:45 pm.
o Funeral staging opens at 7am. Busing starts at 8 am.
 Media Parking:
o Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main Street, Franklin