James Nicholas Hagarty

James Nicholas “Jim” Hagarty, a retired Captain of the United States Navy, passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Heritage Oaks Health on St. Simons Island, GA. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, service, love, and devotion to his family and his country.

Born in Ambridge, PA, and adopted as an infant, Jim grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. At 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served for 11 years as a hospital corpsman. While in the Air Force, he began taking college courses and finished his bachelor’s degree at Georgia Southern College (now University). After completing his BS, he taught various science courses at Brunswick High. He rejoined the military and earned a Navy commission through OCS. He served on the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, USS Engage, USS Trippe, USS Sierra, and USNS Concord, and on shore duty in Charleston, SC; Athens, GA; the Pentagon; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and finally, as Director, Defense Distribution Depot in Norfolk, VA. Serving his country was a source of great pride, and the values he embraced in the Air Force and Navy remained with him throughout his life.

Jim earned his MBA in Logistics, Operations, and Material Management from The George Washington University and a Master of Science degree from the National Defense University’s Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Following his military career, he worked as a project manager for 10 years with SRA International, a government contractor.

Jim was a Catholic, and his faith was an important part of his life. It provided strength, guidance, and comfort throughout his journey.

Beyond his military service, Jim enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the outdoors. He especially loved golfing, fishing, and hunting. These hobbies brought him enjoyment, friendships, and many treasured memories.

Above all, Jim cherished his family. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Hilda Powell Hagarty; his daughter and son-in-law, Caitlin and Kyle Heidenthal; his cherished grandson, Patrick James Heidenthal; his sister-in-law, Carol Davidson Hagarty; several nephews; and many cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas James and Anna Maria Smulski Hagarty, his brother, George Michael Hagarty, and his infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth Hagarty.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff and nurses at Heritage Oaks Health and Affinis Hospice for the love, support, kindness, and compassionate care they provided to Jim. Their dedication and thoughtfulness will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

Though his final voyage has come, his legacy will remain in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in the peace of Christ and enjoy eternal life.

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Captain Hagarty. Your watch is complete, but your service and memory will never be forgotten.