James J. Hagarty

James J. Hagarty, 84, died on May 31, at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook, NY.

Born on September 16, 1932 in Rosedale, NY, to John and Grace Hagarty, he was one of 11 children. He married Rita Vella on May 26^th, 1956.

James was a U.S. Navy Veteran and an active member of the Knights of Columbus; Our Lady of the Rosary Chapter in Deer Park. He was editor and printer of their monthly newsletter, the Knight Watch. He was also a lifelong member of Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Deer Park and a member of their Holy Name Society. He was a printer by trade and worked for the New York City Parks Department in Rockaway, Queens for 28 years. He also operated H & M Offset Printing.

Jim was a devoted father and grandfather, known for his good sense of humor and cheerful demeanor. He loved family gatherings, gardening, fishing, soccer, road trips, and the sea. His love of nature was brought out more whenever he visited places like the Bayard Cutting Arboretum in Great River.  He will always be remembered for his loving devotion to the Blessed Mother. The legacy he leaves for all of us is that of unconditional love and acceptance, generosity, and the importance of family, faith and humble service to others.

He is survived by Rita, his loving wife of 61 years, four beloved children, James P. (Helen) Hagarty, Janet (Ralph) DeRosa, Paul Rivera-Hagarty (Joann), Linda Hagarty; five beautiful grandchildren, Amanda, Nicholas, Bryana, Rebecca and Taylor; his four siblings Betty, Patricia, Joseph and Judy, and many relatives and friends.  He was predeceased by his parents John and Grace Hagarty, and siblings, Jack, George, Andrew, Claire, Grace and Mary.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all of his beautiful caregivers and dear friends at the Long Island State Veteran’s Home.

In lieu of flowers, any donation to Concern for Independent Living, Inc., Donations Dept., 312 Expressway Drive South, Medford, N.Y. 11763, would be appreciated.

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