James M. Hehir

James Hehir, Cloontohill, Co. Clare, died May 7, 2026. James was the beloved husband of Mary Bernadette Hehir (née Egan), with whom he shared 48 blissful years of marriage. The two met at an Irish ceili at the Red Mill in the Bronx, NY—a moment that began a lifetime of love, partnership, and unwavering devotion.

He was a loving father to Noreen Hehir (Frank), Mary Hales (Robert), William Hehir (Danni), and Erin Hehir (Larry). He was a cherished grandfather to Robert, Jack, and Audrey Hales.

Born on October 13, 1951, James carried with him a lifelong love of his Irish heritage, a deep appreciation for hard work, and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to putting the needs of others before his own. As a young man in Co. Clare, he was an accomplished hurler and spent his free time practicing the fiddle and accordion. After attending agricultural college, he immigrated to the United States in 1972, where he lived until his passing.

A man of many talents and experiences, Jimmy was a demolition expert on the Alaskan Pipeline, worked as a sandhog in the tunnels of the Bronx, and later served his community as a bus operator for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), where he was known for his dependability and quiet kindness.

Despite the many paths his career took, James’s heart never strayed far from his roots. He loved farming and took great pride in his agricultural background, often returning home to Ireland to work alongside his friends and family on their own land.

James’ deep love of music and Irish tradition never wavered. A natural musician, he never stopped expanding on his collection of instruments or expanding his musical repertoire. He played regularly in sessions, attended ceilis, and was a celebrated member of many of the Irish communities in New York. James may have left Ireland, but Ireland never left him.

He is survived by his dear siblings: Mary Marrinan (James), Peggy Liddy (Anthony), Malachy Hehir (Mary), Thomas Hehir, and Patrick Hehir (Anne). He was predeceased by his brother John Hehir.

James is also survived by additional brothers- and sisters-in-law from Bernadette’s family, along with many loving nieces and nephews who will remember him with affection and respect.

Above all, James was devoted to his family. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous heart, deep faith in tradition, and the love he gave so freely to those around him.

James M. Hehir’s life was a testament to perseverance, humility, music, and love. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Quinn Fogarty Funeral Home, 192-15 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11358, on May 12, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy, 35-50 158th St, Flushing, NY 11358, on May 13, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Interment will follow at Mount St. Mary Cemetery, 172-00 Booth Memorial Ave, Flushing, NY 11365, on May 13, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.