Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Paul Talty Obituary
Paul and Barbara Talty's Cape Cod in Wantagh, N.Y., was already crowded when there were just two children, Paul Jr. and Lauren. With a third was on the way, it was time to raise the roof.
Having worked as an electrician and carpenter before joining the New York City Police Department in 1993, Officer Talty tackled most of the work himself.
He built a full second-story addition, working after his shift and on days off to get the place ready for Kelly, who was born in August.
Officer Talty built his career the way he remodeled his house — combining disparate elements in a master plan.
"Paul wasn't driven to be a hero like some others on the force," said his sister-in- law Lisa Talty. There are many teachers in his family, but no policemen. "He became a policeman because he wanted to take care of his family."
Officer Talty was nonetheless dedicated to police work, especially after joining the emergency services unit.
"You knew that if it came down to it, Paul would do whatever needed to be done,"said his friend Joseph McAuliffe.
Officer Talty, 40, loved the beach, and looked forward to vacationing in Naples, Fla., each winter.
He considered taking the police officer's test there, and going into teaching after he retired.
"Paul would have made a great teacher," said his wife, Barbara. "I always said 'I wish you were a teacher. It's a much less dangerous career.' "
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sharon Benavente
November 12, 2024
I be looking for you
Jerome Best
September 5, 2021
There’s not a 9/11 anniversary or day that I’m in Wantagh officiating a volleyball match that I don’t think about Paul and his family. Great family and friends. I remember the day he came to my dry cleaners (CARAMEL CLEANERS) and ask me to sew on his new EMS patches. #FAMILYANDFRIENDS4LIFE
Sharon Talty
July 23, 2018
Dear Paul we miss you very much
I spent much time asking about 911.
Some of my friends new of you,including my kids
Father. I am a cousin who never got to know you. My girlfriend meredith cried when she saw your video.
Congrats on your first grand child
Love Sharon
November 1, 2016
To the family of officer Talty,
I am a former North Las Vegas police officer in Las Vegas, NV and recently donated money to the 911 memorial fund via Palm mortuary located here in Las Vegas. My donation entailed me receiving a memorial United States flag and a short story of HERO from 911. Being a police officer myself, I requested a flag representing a brother in blue. I was lucky to receive the one representing Officer Talty and after reading a short story about him, It showed how brave, strong and willing to enter those buildings he was. I am proud to call people like him a brother and feel strongly about his intentions regarding that day. Please accept my deepest condolences and know you will always have a brother in blue in Las Vegas that has you and all of his family in our daily prayers...
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Leslie Fiatte
September 11, 2016
Dear Barbara & family. On the 15th anniversary of 911, I want to touch base with you. In my home town, back then, I donated to the 911 police & fire, by buying a few bracelets. Paul Talty was one that I wore all the time, until it finally wore out & broke, but I never forgot. I even, back then sent you a photo of me with the bracelet on. (Maybe you remember) In any event, Paul, as many others, are heroes & never forgotten! God bless you, your family, other heroes & America. My email is [email protected] my name is Les Fiatte, I am on facebook too.
Debbie Gajda
September 11, 2015
we played together as kids , as our families were close . We watched each other grow throughout the years . My heart still aches for you & your family . Xoxo
brother gus campion,osb
September 8, 2015
2015- We remember Paul as a great guy here at St Bernard in Cullman, ALabama.
br gus
Bill Orlando
September 12, 2014
God, Bless You Paul....
pat mcauliffe
September 11, 2014
The pain remains...as does the love for Paul! !!
Bro. Gus Campion
September 7, 2014
We again remember Paul on this anniversary of 9/11.
The Benedictine Monks at St. Bernard Abbey.
Shari Gonzalez
May 15, 2014
i have a bracelet given to me for Christmas 2011, I wear it to remind me to pray for the Talty family. I thought of him today upon the 911 memorial dedication. my prayers to Barbara and family
Matt Janus
February 6, 2014
Sweet.....kind.....funny..... hero, one of the good ones. Dearly Missed
Bill Orlando
September 11, 2013
God Bless you Paul
Randy Phillips
May 14, 2013
Paul was a great person. Growing up in RVC he spent many a day hanging out with my brother Allen and I. He had a great sense of humor and always made us smile. He is missed by my family as we still talk about the good times we all had together. God Bless Paul Talty , The Talty Family, and the People Who Serve Our Country.
Stacey Carey
September 10, 2012
As a 17 year old, I purchased a bracelet with procedes going towards September 11 relief funds. For 11 years I have continued to pray for your family, as Police Officer Paul Talty's name was inscribed on the bracelet I received. Although I can't remember the last time I saw the bracelet, I continue to think about your family and pray for you all often.
Sharon Farag
August 25, 2012
Dear Paul
Thank you for giving your life for others.
Love Sharon
brother gus campion
September 13, 2011
Watched some of the memorial at the WTC sunday AM and refused to head to church until I heard Paul's name read out.He was a great guy.
Jill Thomas
September 11, 2011
I watched family members touching Paul's name at the memorial on television this morning, then went to a Healing Field of remembrance flags near Grand Rapids, Michigan. Each of 3200 flags bears the name of a person who passed on September 11, 2001. We happened to come across Paul's flag, recognized his name from just the hour before and purchased it, with the donation going to benefit Western Michigan First Responders. To Paul's family: If you would like this flag, I am willing to ship so you may have it.
Mark Bradford
September 11, 2011
My wife and I saw your family this morning on television at The 9-11 Memorial. We saw Paul's name and how you touched it. We wanted to say we are sorry for your loss and that you are not alone.
Love,
Mark and Ida Bradford
brother gus campion
September 7, 2011
Paul was a resident in our dorm his frehmen year at St bernard college (southern benedicine) here in Cullman, Alabama. He was a great guy and I can see how he continued to be so as he matured. I remember so well him coming into the dorm , hanging out with the others there. We ( benedictine monks ) who knew him remember him every year on 9/11. I was so happy to at least be in touch with his family thru the tributes I have read as the tenth anniversary approaches.
COZETTE Jef
August 31, 2011
Dear Barbara, Kelly, Loren and Paul,
Un petit bonjour de France. Ma famille est maintenant à Vierzon dans le Cher, mais nous pensons à vous. Tous les officiers de gendarmerie de la promotion réseau saint jacques gardent en mémoire votre courage et la force que vous avez montré à surmonter cette épreuve. J'ai une pensée pour vous à l'approche de ce 10eme anniversaire. Bon courage à vous de la part de la famille COZETTE signé Jef COZETTE
Karen & Bill Simpson
August 26, 2011
As we approach the tenth anniversary we want the Talty family to know that Paul will never be forgotten. Bill will never forget Paul and the many days that they shared working together at Truck 10. To Barbara you know that if you ever need us we are here. I know that Paul, Lauren and Kelly are so proud of their dad. Kelly you look just like him. All our love.
June 1, 2011
Paul, you and your family shall forever be in our prayers for all of your heroics and the kindness in your heart. You and your brethren shall never be forgotten. God Bless
Kevin & Laura Millerick and family
Julia Harrison
November 16, 2010
I never knew you Paul but I have a rememberance band I wear that has your name on it. I think of you and your family everyday. God be with you, your family and all those who perished in 911.
Robyn Spangenberg
September 9, 2009
God bless you Paul. We will never forget you. In my thoughts and prayers always.
Kelly Talty
November 15, 2008
Paul Talty was my daddy. I am proud that he was a police officer. When I grow up I want to be in the canine unit of the police department. Thanks to all the people who wrote about my daddy.
kristine
October 23, 2008
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
John Rohe
September 12, 2008
Paul, You were a friend and a very good partner of mine in the 108 Pct. May God bless you and your family.You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You are truly a hero.
Mike How
September 11, 2008
May the Lord BLESS all you folks for you sacrifices made that day. My father, a WWII veteran (served under Patton's 3rd Amy Corp) always tells me.... never forgot all who served... military or civilian.
Paula Graffius
August 17, 2008
I had to sign in here and say that my maiden name is Paula Talty and my grandfather came here from Ireland through Ellis Island along with his brothers. When I saw Paul's name and then saw his photo I am sure we were related. He does resemble the Taltys in my family. God bless you!
Susan Gallo
July 20, 2008
I wear Paul's bracelet since 9/11. I just would like to express grattitude and prayers to the family and acknowledge that he is a hero in my eyes.He did not die in vain!!!!!!
P Tabbernor
March 28, 2007
In memory....
Brien D McMahon
November 7, 2006
I operated a store in Bethpage, NY and had these two men who would always stop by and look at the tools in the store and shoot the breeze. They never said what they did for a living. This went on for about a year.
My store closed and I was transfered to the Flushing, New York store as manager. Several days into my transfer, a large NYPD truck pulled up in from of the store and I couldn't see who it was. Then all of a sudden, two Policemen came through the door and announced their arrival. It was Paul and his partner Tommy Langone. I was surprised to see them and asked why they hadn't told me they were cops. In reality, it didn't matter.
They visited me on a regular basis and we spent many hours talking and having great conversation.
On September 11th, I knew something beyond imagination had happened. I knew quite a few individuals who worked downtown and knew that all hands would be involved in the rescue and recovery. I found all were safe except for my friends Paul and Tommy. Both were listed as missing.
On September 13th, I sat in bed with my wife watching Channel 2 Nerws at 11:00PM. Forever etched in my mind will be the story by Pablo Guzman. "Let me tell you about one of the hero's of Sept 11th. The 40 year old father of a baby girl and a member of NYPD's elite ESU Unit 10 from Queens." There was a short pause and simultaneously, I repeated the name PAUL TALTY.
Paul and Tommy will forever remembered in my heart and soul. May God keep them safe and by his side.
To Paul's wife, I may not know your pain, but I understand as I have my own. Be strong with your child and raise her as both of you would have done.
Brien
Sean Brennan
September 10, 2006
I can't believe it's been 5 years already. Paul, I hardly knew you but you were always a very sweet, friendly guy and all of the testimonials here prove it. While the rest of us in Manhattan that day fled as far away from danger as we could, you ran into it, knowing that your place was there helping others. You were an angel in life and you have become one now in Heaven. God is not like the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus. God is real and you are with God, working with heaven doing what you have always done best, being an angel. Please keep watching over all of us, especially your closest friends and your family here on Earth. You see the big picture now and how beautiful life is. Help us all to see that beauty every day, all around us and in one another. Thank you, Paul. Thank you.
Donna Magaard
March 28, 2004
To the family and friends of Paul Talty; I also wear a Mercy Band bearing Paul's name. My heartfelt sympathy goes to you, and everyone the 9-11 tragedy touched. Nothing I can say can ever ease the pain of your loss. The memory of Paul lives on thru my Mercy Band, which I wear with pride as a constant reminder of the sacrifice. My heart is with you.
Lisa Marone-Casatelli
March 11, 2004
Dear Gloria, Jack, Kevin, John, Kerri, Mark, Trish, Steven, Barbara, Paul Jr., Lauren, Kelly, Family, Friends of Paul: (especially my dearest friend Trish, Paul's youngest sister) I am so sorry for that dreadful day and the loss of your most precious Paul. Paul, you're an angel in Heaven watching over your family,their hearts and souls, you are loved, as they know they are loved by you. God bless you all. WE WILL NEVER FORGET
Lisa Casatelli (Marone)
March 11, 2004
To Gloria, Jack, Kevin, John, Kerri, Mark, Trish, Steven, Barbara, Paul Jr., Kelly, and all the family and friends of Paul (especially my dearest friend, Trish, Paul's youngest sister) still to this day the tragedy of this dreadful day is in our hearts and souls and i am truly sorry for your loss. Paul, your an angel watching over all your family, and i just want you to know, you and they are blessed with love and friendship, rest in peace.
Terry Jewart
January 25, 2004
I too proudly wear a Mercy Band with
Officer Talty's name on it. Please
know how terribly sorry we are for
you and your family's loss. We will
be forever grateful for the supreme
sacifice Paul and the other made on
that awful day. May God bless you
and your family.
Terry Jewart
[email protected]
St ockton, CA
Cheryl Kelley
October 1, 2003
To the Talty Family,
I know that words can't possibly make you feel any better, but let it be known that the bravery of these men and women are going to be remembered forever. My heart is with you.
Cheryl Kelley
Robert Harsanyi
September 11, 2003
i am deeply sorry for your loss
my prayers are with family
Theresa (Borke) Keating
June 18, 2003
Dear Talty family: I am so sorry to learn of Paul's passing. I grew up in your home with Kerry and remember all the fun we all had especially on the trip we took to Wappingers Falls camping! Paul made me laugh so much on that trip! Please send my condolences especially to Mr. and Mrs. Talty and to Kerry who was my best friend! And let them all know that my prayers are with the whole family! Thanks, Terri (Borke) Keating
Mrs. Barbara Talty
February 12, 2003
Dear Friends and Family,
Thank you for your support and kind words about my husband, Paul. Since September 11th, 2001 I have been blessed with your support to help me through each day. For weeks after the tragedy I would get my mail and open cards for Paul and read this guestbook and my children knew this was the time Mom would cry. In the months that followed I felt the support of my Police family and the strength I drew from them was incredible.
Paul was a modest man and never spoke much about his work as an Emergency Services Police Officer. I told him several times that his job was dangerous but when a person was in need of his assistance they were getting the best. Paul was able to think clearly under great times of crisis and was a compassionate person.
To my husband, I know you are smiling down on the children and I. You were my best friend and a loving and devoted husband that will be missed for eternity. You are forever in my heart and always in my thoughts. I love you.
February 12th 2003
Mrs. Barbara Talty
Timothy Breen
December 5, 2002
Barb and family,
As the holidays approach, I want you to know that you are in our prayers. If there is anything you need, please let me know. I'm NYPD 15 years and feel that you are my family too.
Tim Breen
Brian Talty
October 10, 2002
God Bless the family of Paul Talty and all the brave men and women of our great land. Pray that all the children of this land learn the value of being free people.
Pattie Daley
September 19, 2002
Barbara,
During difficult times, please remember there are people who care!!
Pattie
walter pomeroy
September 14, 2002
To Barbara Paul Lauren and Kelly just to let you know you were all in our thoughts on 9/11 and I was wearing Paul's baseball cap you sent me infact we all had a minutes silence in Paul's memory & for all the other victims God Bless you all. from Walter & and all the people in Albrighton UK
STEPHEN MCNAMARA
September 11, 2002
GOD BLESS WE WILL NEVER FORGET .NYPD 109 PCT
Mike McClendon
September 7, 2002
This weekend on the 1 year anniversary of your heroism, my peewee baseball team, the Yankees, will wear NYFD & NYPD ballcaps. One of these ballcaps will have your name in it.
We will never forget you!
Jean English
September 6, 2002
To Barbara and Family
"Posterity-you will never know how much it has cost my generation to preserve your Freedom.I hope you will make good use of it"
This quote by John Quincy Adams reminded me of what Paul did for all those he saved, May we always remember him and what he did that day.
Love Jean English
Conchetta Daras
August 31, 2002
Dear Barbara, I am so sorry to find that Paul was lost on 9/11. You may not remember me, but I remember you and Paul and Paul Jr. Paul was my son Gary's little league Coach one year. We had a good time that year and Paul was very patient with Gary and my husband Barry. Barry tried to help Paul,but he knew nothing about Little League. Paul forgave Barry his mistakes and laughed them off. I have fond memories of Paul and your family and my heart goes out to you. I know this is late, but if there is anything I can do for you, please e-mail me. You are in my prayers. God Bless You.
Love Conchetta Daras
Jill Bona
August 22, 2002
Barbara, I met you and your family through your sister Noreen in Syracuse. I remember the entire family coming for a SU game and the fun and joy your family shared with our group. I am so happy I met Paul and share in your loss. May god watch over you and your family. Words cannot express the sadness this experience has brought. My best to you and the family always.
Love Jill
Becky Sowders
June 9, 2002
This is for Barbara and her family. I met you in Washington DC at the National Police Memorial Service, and my heart went out to you. I have been where you are now, and I survived by having family and friends surrounding me with their love. I hope you will count on me to be one of those friends to support you. You can contact me at any time!! You are a beautiful person, Barbara, and you have a wonderful family. Things won't be easy -- but you will all make it. Your C.O.P.S.'s friend. Becky
Tara Pasqua
June 4, 2002
May god watch over you and your family in this time of need. You will truly be missed by all that knew you. Barbara, stay strong for your family and the children. God bless you all!!! Love, Tara (Danielle's friend)
Angie Campbell
May 29, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
May 11, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO...PAUL TALTY AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE..CHILDREN...FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND THE CARPENTER ST.JOSEPH AND ST.PAUL GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Cody Corkran
April 22, 2002
I am a police officer in Nederland,TX(90 miles east of Houston). I recently learned of the Mercy Bands and purchased two. Not long after we recieved them everyone in the department had one. My girlfriend, Kelli, recieved Officer Talty's. After she read Officer Talty's story on here she was crying. She wears her band everyday and is proud to do so. It serves as a constant reminder to her of the sacrifice each of us might make every night we are on the streets. To the family, you will forever be in our prayers.
Sean Brennan
March 23, 2002
Dedicated to the Talty Family, who have been temporarily separated from their Paul, NYPD Officer Paul Talty. Heaven unites, tears dry, hugs abound.
Towers In Heaven
Two towers strong above us stood,
majestic, proud, twin brothers close,
not made of steel, or brick or wood,
but born of dreams; to thee we toast.
You held our loved ones, strangers too,
who came to you from many lands,
and when protect them you could not do,
you raised them up into God’s hands.
And there they rest in peace somehow,
and there their sorrows are no more,
and there will God reward them now,
and there on them His love will pour.
And there majestic they now are,
towers each in Heaven’s dome,
protecting us from not so far,
living still in hearts and home.
Written by Sean Patrick Brennan 9-26-01 with divine guidance by God and Paul Talty.
Gregory Morris
March 11, 2002
When all the victims of 911 were posted on Newsday.com I wasn't sure where I knew Paul from? After a few days of seeing his smile and face over and over in my head I realized I went to college with Paul at Saint Bernard's College in Coleman Alabama. I immediately notified the college about him being missing and they advised me they would have a special mass in his honor. After I hung up the phone this incredible feeling came over me and I heard a Dennis D'Young song on the radio which described a soul heading towards heaven. At that moment I knew Paul was at rest and he just needed someone in his past to remember him by! I glad he chose me for that final task. My prayers are with his entire family now! Sincerely, Greg Morris
Heather Wendzik
March 9, 2002
I just wanted to say I am very proud of the people who have died for us and for everyone. I will wear Pauls name with the utter most pride. I will keep him, his family and everyone lost that day in my prayers and thoughts.
Kari Hicks
March 4, 2002
I received Paul's bracelet today and will wear it with pride. My prayers go out to Paul's family--every family who lost loved ones that day. May God Bless us and our country
Joe McAuliffe
February 22, 2002
Words fail! We lost a great one America. I wish everyone knew him. What Paul,the rest of the NYPD, and FDNY did that day will never be forgotten. America thanks you and your family, and we all miss the greatest friend anyone could have. ...Love Joe,Anne,Timmy,Kirsten & Cara
Tasha Constancia
February 2, 2002
I received a mercy band with Paul's name on it today. In July, I will being the Police Academy here in Albuquerque. I am so proud to wear this braclet. It not only reminds me of the heros who died for our country, but it gives me strength and courage to become the best police officer I can be. Thank you.
Susie Foley
January 23, 2002
I received Paul Talty's mercy band as a christmas gift. My prayers and thoughts go out to paul's family daily. 1/23/02
Mary Barron
January 23, 2002
I lost a police officer in the line of duty in 1969, and still feel that loss to today. Yesterday I received Paul Talty's MercyBand and having it on gives me peace. My thoughts, prayers and understanding go out to his family, and he will be in my thoughts daily, along with my officer, Asst. Chief Louis A. Sheets. I know what it's like to be a survivor of a tragedy like this. Together we shall heal.
Jeanne Schuhmann-Ehmann
January 17, 2002
Paul was a loving giving person even as a young boy. He was my brother Paul's best friend and stood by him in all of life's experiences. He was a wonderful man and I feel blessed to have known him. Sincerest sympathies to all.
JACK POWELL
January 3, 2002
I RECEIVED PAUL'S BRACELET FOR CHRISTMAS AND WEAR IT PROUDLY FOR HIM AND ALL THE LOST SOULS OF THIS TRAGEDY. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Allan Duncan
December 18, 2001
I too wear a Mercy Band bearing the name of Paul Talty. I received it yesterday. As an ex-cop from New Jersey I wanted to honor and remember a brother who made the ultimate sacrifice and will make sure that he is never forgotten in my lifetime.
I am a Social Worker now and have come up with a special project to remember those who were lost on 9-11. I have kids and their families from all over NJ and PA making origami cranes that will then be delivered to Ground Zero, the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA on Christmas Eve. Cranes are a symbol of peace, and my hope is that the cranes will bring peace to those who were lost and peace to their families and loved ones. I will personally make a few blue cranes with Paul Talty's name written on them with wishes and prayers written on the inside for Paul and his family.
Teresa Jahn
December 10, 2001
We are so very sorry for the loss of Paul. We thank him for his dedication of protecting others. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Kerry Hughes
December 10, 2001
I proudly wear Mr. Talty's Mercy Band bracelet on my wrist. As the wife of a ESS Officer I know all to well that....for the grace of God goes my husband. My prayers are with Mr. Talty's family today, tomorrow and always.
Patricia Gallagher-Midgley
November 9, 2001
Sincere sympathy.Pat Gallagher Midgley
Showing 1 - 70 of 70 results
Make a Donation
in Paul Talty's name
How to support Paul's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Paul Talty's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored