James Alfred Kearney

James Alfred Kearney November 25, 1955 - May 15, 2026 Staten Island, NY, welcomed James Alfred Kearney into the world on November 25, 1955, and it was there that he crafted a vibrant tapestry of life that touched the hearts of many. James passed away peacefully at home on May 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. Born to Michael and Faith Kearney, James was the embodiment of the values they instilled in him—integrity, compassion, and a zest for life. Preceded in death by his parents and his beloved fiancée, Angela Coyle, James is survived by a large and loving family who will forever cherish his memory. His family, including his daughter Megan Rodriguez, sons Douglas and Michael Kearney, and grandchildren James E. Rodriguez, Stephen G. Rodriguez, Theodore James Kearney, and Kahlan M. Rodriguez, were the pride and joy of his life. His son-in-law Arnaldo Rodriguez and daughter-in-law Marisa Lopez, along with his brothers Joseph M. Kearney, Thomas J. Kearney, and Christopher J. Kearney, and sisters-in-law Marie Kearney and Dionne Kearney, formed a close-knit circle that was often the center of James’s world. He was also a cherished uncle to Robert and John Kearney, and part of an extended family that included his FDNY brothers and sisters. James graduated from Susan Wagner High School in 1973 before pursuing higher education at the College of Staten Island and the Pratt Institute, where he studied mechanical engineering. His career was a testament to his versatile talents and relentless work ethic. From his early days as a summer lifeguard with the NYC Parks Department to his courageous service as a New York City Firefighter from 1981 to 2004, James dedicated his life to service and safety. He was also an entrepreneur, owning and operating Poolside Construction Company and D&M Utility Company, and later worked as an NYC Licensed Site Safety Manager. An active member of the Carpenters Union and Fire Riders, James’s life was as dynamic as it was meaningful. He set track records as a young man, enjoyed skiing in Colorado, and was an aficionado of motorcycles and automobiles. Whether playing pool on his poppa’s table or fishing at his lake house, James was happiest in the company of family and friends, especially his cherished grandchildren. James was a man who lit up any room with his wit, charm, and piercing blue eyes. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life made him a beloved figure to many. He was a true gentleman, a “man’s man,” and most importantly, an invincible hero to his family. A service to honor James’s remarkable life will be held on May 23, 2026, at 3:00 PM at John Vincent Scalia, located at 28 Eltingville Blvd. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has joined them in saying goodbye. They have chosen to grieve privately, comforted by the knowledge that James’s spirit will continue to live on through the memories and stories shared by those who knew him. James lived life on his own terms, a testament to his father’s wisdom that “Life is hard, and once you figure that out, it gets a little easier.” His children and grandchildren are profoundly grateful that he will always be a part of them, a guiding presence in their lives. Though his absence is deeply felt, the love and laughter he shared will forever echo in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.