James Francis Magee

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Jim was Brooklyn born and bred to his core, and proud of it. He carried his hometown with him always - its loyalty, resilience, work ethic, and its irrepressible sense of humor. Those qualities defined both where he came from and the man he became.

Jim devoted much of his career to public service as a Detective with the Nassau County Police Department, later beginning a second career with Cablevision. His proudest role in life was being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love story with his wife, Katherine, began over 70 years ago and never faded across a lifetime together, through which they raised five boys.

A tireless provider, Jim worked countless hours - detective shifts, security details, and extra jobs - and never once complained. His family always came first. He had a gift for solving problems by connecting people; when someone needed help, Jim always "knew a guy." That instinct was never about influence. It came from a genuine, lifelong desire to look out for the people around him.

Jim grew up a passionate Brooklyn Dodgers fan and his love for hockey turned into being a New York Rangers season ticket holder for 50 years. He cheered for the football Giants and the Mets, and he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and celebrating St. Patrick's Day as a proud Irishman marching down 5th Avenue with the Nassau County Police Department. He was a gifted storyteller and known to everyone for a clever quip and a well-told joke. Above all else, his most cherished title was "Popa."

He leaves behind his loving wife, Katherine; his sons, Kevin, James, Daniel, and Michael; his daughters-in-law, Lois, Rose, and Kathryn; his cherished grandchildren, Ryan (and his wife, Hallie), Sean, Katie Collins (Magee) and her husband, JB, Margaret, and Chris; his great-grandchildren, Jaxen, Emma, and Elodie; a host of extended family who loved him as Popa, and lifelong friends who will miss him dearly.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved son, Patrick Kevin Magee.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mary of the Angels Chapel on the campus of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 11401 Leesville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613, on June 17, 2026, at 3:00 pm, with a visitation beforehand, beginning at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial donations to Duke HomeCare and Hospice, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory / story of James, or a message of condolence for his family, you may do so below, within 'Add a Memory'.