James Michael Reilly, Sr. (Jim)

James Michael Reilly Sr. (Jim)

November 29, 1937- January 7, 2026

James M. Reilly, Sr. (Jim) passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the age of 88. He lived in Kerhonkson, NY with his wife of 68 years.

Jim was born on November 29, 1937 to Patrick and Sarah Reilly in Brooklyn, NY. He grew up in a loving household where he was one of seven siblings. Growing up in Brooklyn he enjoyed playing handball, boxing, and spending time with his family and friends.

In 1956 he joined the US Navy and served honorably for four years during which time he served on the aircraft carrier, USS Independence. On June 22, 1957 he married the love of his life, Kathleen (Kitty) Reilly. They lived for a time in Brooklyn NY and had two children. In 1973 they moved upstate to Kerhonkson where they created a beautiful life together. He was truly an animal lover, and throughout the years he had many pets, especially his sweet “Lady”. In addition to his love of animals, he also loved connecting with and helping other people.

Jim worked several different jobs before he began working as a peace officer for the NYS Department of Corrections. After much hard work and dedication he became the first ever Employee Assistance Coordinator for New York State, where he helped many NYS employees by referring them to resources they needed to navigate through all different types of personal issues and crises. He was an avid member of the Our Lady of Lourdes church where he spent years helping with announcements, was the leader of the choir, joined the Knights of Columbus, and really served the lord through his community. He was always helping his family whether it was working on cars, building or repairing things, or just giving great advice and guidance. What he loved most in his life was God and his family. His capacity for love grew and grew as he went through life first as a son and brother, then a husband, father, and uncle, then a grandfather, and finally a great-grandfather. No matter his title in this family or community, his essence remained the same, which was that of profound compassion, wisdom, healing, and unwavering love.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife Kitty Reilly, daughter Laura J. Cepeda, and son James M. Reilly, Jr. (Jim); granddaughters Kayla D. Roman (and husband Jonathan D. Roman), Jordon T. Izzo (and partner Dylan Shelkin), grandson Brandon James Blaise Cepeda; and great grandson Maximus J. Roman. As well as his brother Patrick Reilly (and partner Roseanne Buccino) and his baby sister Rosie Sheppard (and husband Richie Sheppard). He is predeceased by his sister Dolores Fiordaliso, and brothers Donald Reilly, Pete Reilly, and Bobby Reilly. He leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Humiston Funeral Home on Friday, January 16 from 4 - 7 PM. A Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Saturday, January 17 at 11 AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim's name to the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad.