James O'Keefe, Sr.

July 7, 1927 - January 20, 2022

James O'Keefe, Sr., 94 of Great Kills, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 20, 2022, at JFK Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey. Born Thursday, July 7, 1927 in the Bronx, New York, he was a most beloved son of the late John and Helen O'Keefe, and brother to the late John, William, and Helen Niederhauser. Just like many young men of his era, James felt a calling to serve the United States as a brave and courageous Marine during World War II from 1944-1946. For his patriotism and heroism, and for this sacrifice, James is due the eternal thanks of a grateful nation. James was the precious husband of Frances Hoffman O'Keefe, to whom he remained in wedded bliss for 73 wonderful years. James and Frances, together, would embark on the greatest adventure of their lives, as they became the parents to their greatest successes, their children, Suzanne, Maureen, Patricia, James, Dennis, Karren, Elizabeth, and the late Kevin. Also mourning the immense loss of their fond father-in-law are Gayle O'Keefe, Joann O'Keefe, and Rick Buttermark. James' legacy is sure to live on through the lights of his life, his 13 grandchildren. He delighted in being able to see a third generation of his family unfold with 14 great-grandchildren, and was beyond thrilled to welcome a great-great-grandson into the fold before his passing. Scores of nieces, nephews, and greater extended family will mourn the loss of James forevermore. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, January 28, 2022, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York. A Funeral Service will be held at 8:00 p.m.on Friday, January 28, 2022, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York. Private Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to honor Jame's life and legacy be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital