The family of a beloved Bridgeport police sergeant who devoted his life to public service are using his death from COVID-19 to promote public safety.

Retired Sgt. Eugene O'Neill, who was known affectionately as the "Pope of Bridgeport," died Friday.

Friends say they're proud of his family for using O'Neil's good reputation to build awareness about the virus as a way of signal boosting calls for common-sense safety measures.

O'Neill, 87, was known for helping others and never seeking credit, with his candid obituary serving as a final act of public service.

His son is calling on people to use his father's death as a wakeup call, imploring the public to consider the consequences of not wearing a mask.