Commissioner Fortune Macri

Commissioner Fortune Macri, 93, of New Rochelle, New York, formerly of Pelham Manor, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025.

Born in Albany, New York, on June 7th 1931, to Vincent and Rose Macri, Fortune was the eldest of two children and the oldest of 21 cousins. He grew up in Albany and graduated from Schuyler High School before attending Fordham University’s Rose Hill campus, where he pursued a degree in political science. A proud Fordham alumnus, Fortune remained devoted to his alma mater throughout his life, attending Catholic retreats and maintaining close ties with the priests and brothers who mentored him.

It was during his time at Fordham that Fortune met the love of his life, Jeannette Dress, while visiting the dental office where she worked. Their bond grew, and they married during Fortune’s service in the United States Army. The couple was blessed with 68 years of marriage, living first in the Bronx and later in Pelham Manor, where they raised five children: Duffy, Fortune, Charles, Gloria, and Anthony.

Fortune’s military service took him to La Rochelle, France, during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he went on to complete his legal studies at New York Law School, where he earned his JD.

Fortune’s career in public service began as an Assistant District Attorney in Bronx County. He later worked for the City of New York, holding various positions, including Deputy Commissioner of Rent Control and Commissioner of Firearms in the 1970s. After serving as Commissioner, he returned to private practice, operating a law firm in Lower Manhattan before relocating it to White Plains.

Outside of his professional life, Fortune was a passionate sportsman. He enjoyed playing tennis and paddle tennis at the New York Athletic Club, and he found joy in shooting trap at Travers Island. Fortune also had a deep appreciation for food, particularly French cuisine, and loved introducing his family to a variety of ethnic restaurants. He was a lifelong lover of jazz music and shared many memorable dance moments with Jeannette. In recent years, Fortune spent time playing cards with friends at the NYAC, a tradition he cherished.

Above all, Fortune will be remembered for his kind and generous nature. A devout Catholic, he was deeply committed to his faith, his church, and helping those in need. His loyalty, compassion, and capacity for forgiveness left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Fortune is survived by his five children: Duffy, Fortune (Jeanne) Macri, Charles, Gloria (Lorraine Gatti), and Anthony. He loved his three  grandchildren: Fortune III, Matthew, and Robert Macri. Fortune will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jeannette, and his sister, Kathryn Norton.

A celebration of Fortune's life will be held at Pelham Funeral Home, 64 Lincoln Avenue, Pelham, New York, on Friday, March 14, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 575 Fowler Avenue, Pelham Manor, New York, on Saturday, March 15, at 10:00 a.m., with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

For more information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.