James E. Gunn

Jim was a gifted storyteller whose lively tales of his days in the FDNY, his service in the U.S. Navy, and his beloved family were legendary among all who knew him. His stories, rich with humor, wisdom, and love, captured a life deeply lived and generously shared. At any table, Jim could hold court, sharing stories and making people laugh with his trademark wit.

He spent countless summers as a child in Noyac Bay, where his family rented a cottage in Sag Harbor and where he felt most at peace. Those summers left a lasting mark on his heart, tying him forever to those places and waters. A true man of the sea, Jim was happiest near the water and aboard a sailboat. He believed salt water could cure all. Even when simply driving by a body of water, he’d have to say hello. And when he could no longer walk the beach, he’d park his car nearby just to watch the waves.

An avid wooden boat builder and restorer, Jim devoted time to his craft both in his backyard and at Bayles Boat Shop in Port Jefferson. His passion for sailing passed down to his son and grandson, Ryan, who followed in his footsteps to become sailors and a harbor master.

Jim was a long-time and celebrated volunteer at the Long Island State Veterans Home, where he spent Sunday mornings ensuring that veterans could attend mass. He was also a charter member of the St. Gerard Majella Knights of Columbus, where he dedicated more than thirty years to hosting events, cooking meals, and serving his community.

In August 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Mary Margaret Gunn, and together they shared more than sixty wonderful years of marriage before her passing. In his later years, Jim was blessed to find companionship and love once more with Mary Ann McAvoy, affectionately known to him as “Gallagher.”

He is survived by his children, Patrick, Kelly, and Jennifer; his daughter-in-law, Jenni Hope, and son-in-law, Douglas; his grandchildren, Caelan, Ryan, Abush, and Norah; and his great-grandchildren, Fiona and Donovan. A proud retired FDNY firefighter and U.S. Navy veteran, Jim’s courage, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family and the sea will be remembered always.