James Patrick Dahill

James Patrick Dahill, age 99, went to be with our Lord on September 28, 2024.
He was born in West Hoboken, New Jersey to James and Nora Dahill on March 11, 1925. He graduated from Amityville High School in New York and went on to join the Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and began a 37-year career in Law Enforcement. He started in the probation department, worked as a Criminal Investigator, attended the FBI academy, and moved through the ranks to finally retire with the rank of Deputy Chief of Detectives of Suffolk County in January 1984. He was an instructor at Suffolk County Community College where he taught criminal justice. He attended Hofstra college and eventually attaining his master's degree from State University of New York at Stony Brook.
He was very active in the community, attended church, served on committees, and joined numerous organizations.
He was a voracious reader and loved puzzles. He was an avid tennis player and golfer in his time.
He and our mother Kathryn, married on October 30, 1976, and we became a blended family. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He taught us many things, including a strong work ethic and to be there for each other. He treated us all the same and loved us unconditionally. Because of him and our mom, they united us and made us one family. We were truly blessed to call him dad. He leaves behind an amazing legacy.
James is survived by his beloved wife Kathryn of Melbourne, Florida; daughters Maureen Johnson (Glenn) of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Kathleen Curtiss (Sterling) of Chuluota, Florida; Karen Tabet (Tim) of Palm Bay, Florida; son Daniel Dahill (Celeste) of East Islip, New York; grandchildren Melissa Johnson of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Timothy Tabet (partner Cait) of Palm Bay, Florida; Kaitlyn Tabet (partner Andre) of Orlando, Florida; Thomas Dahill (Jackie) of Patchogue, New York; and Nicholas Dahill (Kayla) of Hillsborough, North Carolina. He is also survived by great-grandchild Emma Johnson of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
James was preceded in death by his father James Patrick Dahill; mother Nora (Moynihan) Dahill; and brother Charles Dahill.
A celebration of life will be held at Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 E. Palmetto Ave., Melbourne, FL on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 5:00 pm.
A graveside service will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 U.S. Highway 1, North Mims Florida on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers contributions could be made to William Childs Hospice House, 381 Medplex Pkwy., Palm Bay, Florida, 32907.