Born and raised in Chicago, Mr. Foley attended Florida State University on a swimming scholarship. He joined the United States Army where he trained as a Ranger and served as an intelligence courier in Japan during the 1950s. He then earned a law degree at the University of Florida.
Mr. Foley practiced law for over 50 years in Palm Beach County. After working as a prosecutor in the County Solicitor’s office, he opened one of the area’s first law firms dedicated to criminal defense law. He represented clients from all walks of life and enjoyed the camaraderie of the growing legal community.
Mr. Foley served as an active reservist in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). He said that one of his proudest acts of service was helping the families of soldiers who died in the Vietnam War obtain survivors benefits. Upon retiring as a Colonel, he found great fellowship at the Rood Williams American Legion in Tequesta.
A longtime member of the Sailfish Club of Florida, Mayacoo Lakes Country Club, and the Tuscawilla Club, Mr. Foley loved fishing and playing backgammon. He was a proud Florida State University Alumni Booster and Theta Chi member. His two brothers, William and John, preceded him in death. He is survived by his former wife Mary Foley, his six children, Nan Foley of Juno Beach, Dr. Patrick Foley of Stuart, Bridget Foley of New York City, Daniel Foley of Chicago, Cassie Foley Glover of New York City, and James B. Foley of Nashville, as well as ten grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Monday May 7, 2018 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Howard-Quattlebaum Funeral, Cremation and Event Center located at 754 US Highway 1, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. Mr. Foley will be laid to rest the following day at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting that donations be made to the Rood Williams American Legion, Post 271, 775 U.S. Highway 1, Tequesta, Florida, 33469.
