James Reilly

One of 9 children, James Reilly was born in Cloonose, Co.Cavan, Ireland in 1930,immigrated to New York, fell in love and married Margaret Guiry of Bruree, Co.Limerick, Ireland, in 1961. The long time family home was in Bellerose, NY, until he moved to Lake Ronkonkoma, NY. A carpenter by trade, a good story teller and kind friend, his easy companionship and Irish humor will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. He is survived by his four children Breeda, James, Edward and Barbara, and his five grandchildren; Mikko, Minna, Kevin James, Daniel and Julia. He is a beloved uncle, father-in-law, brother, friend and neighbor. Well known at the Mineola Irish center, as well as St.Gregory’s church and the Ancient Order of Hibernians, he is most remembered for his love of dancing and Irish music, rescues with bingo chips, fierce checker games, welding his hammer with precision and accuracy, lending a helping hand, measuring twice and cutting once, earnest discussions about weather, brooms, and the value of a good dog.