James Francis Keenaghan

James Francis Keenaghan II, passed away on December 9, 2024, at the age of 79. James was born on July 3rd, 1945 in Brooklyn, NY to Ruth Spence and James F. Keenaghan. Jim graduated from Erasmus Hall High School and also attended CUNY College. By his early 20s, Jim had already lived a life of service and adventure. A proud veteran, he served as a training sergeant in the Army during the early years of the Vietnam War. After his service, he became a Sheriff in Putnam County, NY, where he also built his first home from scratch. His lifelong dream came true when he became a firefighter with the FDNY, where he later received the Susan Wagner Medal for his countless acts of bravery. Jim was deeply devoted to a life of hard work and unwavering dedication to family. Between working demanding 24-hour shifts with the FDNY, he ran a thriving contracting business, JFK Construction, and raised five children. After retiring from the FDNY at just 41, he devoted his time to his community in East Rockaway on Long Island. He volunteered with the local fire department, worked to preserve the neighborhood's natural beauty with the East Rockaway Beautification Group, and built accessibility ramps for neighbors in need through People Helping People. After the tragic loss of his wife to cancer, Jim relocated to Aquebogue, Long Island, where his commitment to community continued. He served on the Board of Directors for the Hallockville Farm and Museum, volunteered with the Long Island Cauliflower Association, and became a Chief of the Jamesport Fire Department. During this time, he also found love again with Marianne Goudreau, who became his cherished wife in August of 2002. In his later years, Jim and Marianne built their dream home on a sprawling 40-acre property in Florence, South Carolina. His passion for collecting unique treasures—whether it was fire department memorabilia from the 19th-century or collecting tractors that he used on his land—spoke to his endless curiosity and love for history. Though his final years were marked by health challenges, Jim's strength and determination remained steadfast. He was deeply loved and admired by his family and friends, who will forever cherish his stories, wisdom, and the life lessons he imparted. Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Marianne, and his six children: Maureen Meuse, James Keenaghan III, Robert Keenaghan, Christopher Hoffman, Suzanne Wendt, and Kristoffer Radtke. He also leaves behind 16 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and countless friends and family. A church service will be held at 2:00 PM, on Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Ann Catholic Church, in Florence, SC, with a memorial service in New York in January. Jim will be laid to rest beside his late wife in Greenfield Cemetery on Long Island, where his legacy of service, love, and resilience will continue to inspire. Rest in peace, James Francis Keenaghan II—your impact on this world will never be forgotten. Please sign the Guest Book for the family at www.stoudenmiredowling.com.