James Harkins

James Harkins, 71, of Bulls Head, known for his loyalty and dedication to his loved ones, died Sunday after a brief illness in NYU Medical Center, Manhattan.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Mr. Harkins moved to Bulls Head in 1969 after marrying his high school sweetheart, Delores McNeill.

He worked as a general superintendent for the New York City Transit Authority for 25 years, retiring in 1998.

Mr. Harkins graduated from Fort Hamilton High School, Brooklyn.

He was an avid car enthusiast and enjoyed spending time at his second home in Jupiter, Fla.

His wife of 23 years, Delores, died in 1986.

He cared for her night and day while she was battling cancer, said his daughter, Tricia Harkins. He was a man among men and did things on his own terms. You always knew where you stood with him. He loved hard and fought harder.

In addition to his daughter, Tricia, surviving are a son, James; a sister, Mary Longo, and five grandchildren.

The Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville, is handling the arrangements, which include a private funeral service. Burial will be in Moravian Cemetery, New Dorp.

Services: Private

Visitation: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Wednesday, September 25, 2013 7-9PM

Cemetery: Moravian Cemetery

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home

Church: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home