John Raymond Keogh

John Raymond Keogh

Boynton Beach, Florida, formerly of Yonkers, New York

John Raymond Keogh, a beloved father, brother, husband, and friend, passed away on September 4th, 2023, at the age of 81. Born in Portarlington, County Offaly, to Garrett and Dora Keogh, John was the third of seven children. His journey through life was marked by adventure, dedication, and an enduring sense of humor.

John's early years were spent in Portarlington, where he graduated from the Christian Brothers School. During his time in secondary school, he excelled in football, playing for both the Christian Brothers and the County Offaly Minor team.

Following his secondary education, John embarked on a path of service by joining the Irish Army. He was a proud member of the UN peacekeeping forces, serving in the Belgian Congo in 1961. In 1964, he was transferred to Cyprus, where he continued his commitment to peacekeeping.

In 1967, John immigrated to the United States and began his American journey working as a janitor before enlisting in the United States Army. He served a tour in Vietnam before his honorable discharge. Afterward, he settled in the Bronx, where he worked as a bartender. It was at the Cork Lounge in Queens that he met his beloved wife, Marie, and they were married at the UN Church. Together, they built a life in New Rochelle and Woodlawn, raising their two children, Gearóid and Gráinne. John worked as a dedicated bus driver for Liberty Lines for over 20 years, serving his community with a smile.

In his leisure time, John was an avid traveler, enjoyed playing darts with his friends, and cherished social gatherings. He will forever be remembered as a charming and witty man, always ready with a one-liner and a funny joke to share. His strong faith and willingness to help others endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

John is survived by his loving wife, Marie, his children, Gearóid and Gráinne, his brothers, Paddy and Brian, and his three sisters, Peg Whealan, Anne Byrne, and Doreen Folan. He will be dearly missed by his numerous nieces, nephews, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, and friends. John is preceded in death by his brother, Gary.

John Raymond Keogh's memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched. His legacy of humor, kindness, and selflessness will be cherished for generations to come.

At further notice a Funeral Mass for John will be held at St. Michaels Church in Portarlington, Co Offaly.  For more information or to leave a condolence please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com

There will be a Memorial Mass for John at St. Barnabas Church located at 409 East 241 Street, Bronx, NY on Saturday, September 9th  at 7:30 PM.

Ar dheis de go raibh a anam dilis

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made in John's name to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.