A resident of Palm Desert, CA., for the last 8 years, passed away suddenly on Monday, September 28, just shy of his 78th birthday. Son of John and Helen McTiernan, James was born and grew up in Bellerose, NY. Jim graduated from Bishop Reilly High School in 1966. He graduated from St. John’s University in Jamaica in 1971. James worked for the New York City Police Department as a civilian, and for the New York City Department of Sanitation, retiring after 34 years. He was a long time resident of Kings Park, NY,
where he and his wife, Catherine, raised their family.
He is pre-deceased by his parents, brother, John, and sister, Anne. He will be reunited in heaven with his infant children, Meaghan and Ryan.
James is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Catherine (née Madocks), and his son, Seán, and daughter, Kaitlan McTiernan-Montes (Miguel). He is also survived by his adoring granddaughters, Noor McTiernan, and Kayleigh Montes.
Jim was an avid bowler for many years, as well as a fisherman. He loved to travel, having visited more than 40 US states and 25 countries.
Jim was a devoted, loving husband and excellent father and grandfather. He will remain forever
in our hearts. If you’d like to make a donation, please donate to the American Heart Association.
Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
