RICHMOND, R.I. (WLNE) — A pizza parlor is raising funds for the family of a police officer who died on Oct. 20 after a sudden illness. Sergeant Michael Lawing was a frequent visitor at Town Pizza II, where restaurant staff said he was always a presence of joy. “We wanted to do as much as we could for Caitlyn and the children of Officer Lawing,” Town Pizza II Manager Charlotte Currie said. “He was a wonderful man, an outstanding officer, who contributed so much to the community.” His wife, Caitlin Lawing, stopped by on Tuesday to thank staff for their generosity and shared some emotional words about her husband. “Michael was the best person,” Caitlyn Lawing said. “He would give the shirt off his back for anyone, he was wonderful at his job, he was a wonderful dad.” Word of the fundraiser spread fast around Richmond and even outside the town. “We’ve gotten a huge response from the community today,” Currie said. “Since 11 this morning we’ve had constant people coming and going, fireman, other police stations, ordering a ton of food.” All proceeds of the event were donated to the Lawing family. “Seeing everyone come out for him, it crushes my heart,” Caitlyn Lawing said. “Because it’s for my husband, but I know that he’d be in tears if he saw this and all of these people that have come together to help us.” Lawing was a member of the Richmond Police Department since 2001 and was promoted to the role of sergeant in 2011. He was also credited with starting the department’s K-9 and body camera programs. For those who want to donate, the family has created a GoFundMe. Categories: News, Rhode Island