James Deneen Jr.

James Edward Deneen, Jr.

May 21, 1939 – December 27, 2025

James Edward Deneen, Jr., of Rockville Centre, New York, entered into eternal rest on December 27, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born on May 21, 1939, in Glen Cove, New York, James was the son of the late James Edward Deneen and Katherine Gorman Deneen, and the brother of Dennis Deneen. He was raised in Valley Stream and lived at 104 West Lincoln Avenue, where he built the foundation of a life rooted in faith, family, and service. James attended Valley Stream Public Schools and graduated from Valley Stream Central High School in 1957. His upbringing was grounded in both education and faith, and his family regularly attended Mass at Holy Name of Mary Parish in Valley Stream.

Following high school, James proudly served his country. He was inducted into the United States Army on September 8, 1958, serving two years of active duty followed by four years in the Army Reserve, completing a total of six years of military service. During his active duty, he was stationed overseas and arrived in Frankfurt, Germany, on February 12, 1959. He was awarded the Sharpshooter Medal on October 16, 1959, in recognition of his skill and dedication.

On April 8, 1967, James married the love of his life, Frances, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Valley Stream. The parish held deep meaning for the couple, as Frances's parents, Marion and Alvin Holmes, were among those who helped establish the church. Together, James and Frances shared a devoted marriage and raised four children: James, Kieran, Moira, and Megan.

James was a proud and loving grandfather to ten grandchildren-four grandsons and six granddaughters-who brought him immeasurable joy and pride: Brendan, Lea, Maeve, Madelyn, Molly, James, Sabrina, James, Aidan, and Kelsie.

Professionally, James dedicated many years of service working for the Department of Social Services, where he was known for his commitment to helping others and his quiet sense of responsibility.

For the past two years of his life, James resided at Oceanside Care Center. During his time there, he made a lasting impression on the staff, who consistently spoke of him with affection and warmth. As he neared the end of his life, staff members came to his room to tell him how much they loved him and to say goodbye-words that were a testament to the impact he had on them and the relationships he formed during his time there.

James will be remembered by family and friends for his dry sense of humor and his understated wit. He often delivered his jokes quietly and without fanfare. One of his more famous acts of humor was anonymously leaving jokes for his niece Vanessa-small gestures that reflected his playful spirit and gentle way of making others smile.

James Edward Deneen, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of service, devotion, kindness, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.