Roger Hugh McGovern

Roger Hugh McGovern, 60, of Floral Park, NY, passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 25, 2026, while preparing his parish for Sunday Mass, something he faithfully did every week. A man of quiet service, steady presence, and deep devotion to family, faith, and community, Roger's passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Roger was the beloved husband of Finola McGovern and proud father of Ailish, Leah, and Dara McGovern, who were the center of his world. He is the cherished son of Michael and Philomena McGovern, and beloved brother to Tricia Dean(whose late husband Billy Dean was lost on 9/11), Kevin McGovern (Jennifer), and Kathy McGovern-Szala (Joseph).

Roger was a dedicated uncle to Matthew, Larry, Michael, Caitriona, Claire, Tom, William, Colleen, Kate, and Noreen. He was also a devoted cousin to Brian, Brendan, Fiona, and Ian here and Marion, Aidan, Paul, Ann, Audrey, Maria, Malachy, Manus, Michelle, Rosemary, and Thomas in Ireland, and a constant, loving presence in the lives of his extended family, friends, and parish community.

Born across the pond, Roger came to the United States as a child and grew up in Queens Village. He was a proud graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes School (1979)and St. Francis Prep (1983). After high school, Roger began his distinguished career with the New York City Police Department, serving with honor until his retirement as Sergeant in 2008.

Roger was a man who led quietly, by example. He was deeply involved in Our Lady of Victory Parish in Floral Park, where he ushered every Sunday at the noon Mass and helped organize countless events, including the Irish Night, golf outings, and parish food drives. He also gave much of his time and heart to the Knights of Columbus, Floral Park Council, where he was known for his humility, kindness, and commitment to the values of fraternity and service.

Roger was the kind of person who always showed up. He helped without being asked. He never sought credit. His actions were consistent and genuine, reflecting a deep belief in community, family, and faith. He was a devoted Mets, Jets, and Rangers fan, loved a good story, and had a quiet sense of humor that made you feel at ease.

Those who knew Roger remember his steady presence, his warm smile, and his unwavering kindness. He had a rare gift for making others feel seen, supported, and cared for. His legacy is one of quiet strength, decency, and love, carried forward by those he touched throughout his life.

Roger's passing was sudden, but it was in keeping with the life he lived, on his way to shovel a path so others could get safely to church. One last act of service, done quietly, because it was the right thing to do.

He will be missed more than words can fully express.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roger's memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or to the Knights of Columbus Charity Fund, Council 2345.

Funeral mass will be livestreamed, details will follow.