James P. O'Keefe

James Patrick O’Keefe, better known to those who loved him as Jim, Dad, or PopPop, was born to eternal life on January 15, 2025. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia; siblings, Frank (Theresa), Sr. Ann Maura, and Rita (James). Jim was a loving father to Maureen (Bob), James Jr. (Olga), Thomas (Lorraine), and Peter (Amy); a cherished PopPop to Meaghan, Bobby, Mary Kate (Connor), Caileen, Erin, Ryann, Christopher, and Timothy; a dear brother to Catherine (Charlie); and brother-in-law to Jane (Robert), and Peggy (Teddy).

Jim was born in Brooklyn on March 22, 1937 to Catherine and Francis O’Keefe. It was in Brooklyn where he would meet his bride, Pat, and where they would start their family. They moved to Pine Street in Garden City in 1966, where they raised their family and were active members of their community, most notably St. Joseph's Parish. Jim was steadfast in his devotion to serving others. His service was exemplified by his years of training in the US National Guard, where he reached the rank of Major. A man led by his Catholic faith, he was active in Parish life, serving as the director of the religious education program, the RENEW program for adults, Pre Cana, and Marriage Encounter.

Jim was a skilled electrician and lifetime member of Local 3 IBEW, where he served as a foreman overseeing large jobs throughout New York City. To many, Jim’s time as an electrician could be considered a successful career, but to those who knew him in retirement, it was just preparation for what was to come. He spent the decades following his retirement constantly serving as a foreman and leader in all parts of life: among his family, friends, Church, and community. His family will remember Jim overseeing household projects, teaching as he directed and leading by example. Friends will remember his devotion to others and countless acts of service. He continued to be active in sharing his faith with others, working as a Eucharistic Minister, as moderator of the “That Man is You” program, and most recently as President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Corpus Christi Parish in Mineola, where he provided aid and support to many local families and individuals.

Jim’s faith was unwavering and he shared it with family, friends, and anyone he encountered. He was generous, loving, and hardworking. He shared his knowledge, wisdom, and experiences with his children and grandchildren, and played a very important role in all of their lives. His legacy will be his faith, his family, and his service for others.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.