John E. McNally

John (Jack) Edward McNally passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on May 28, 2023. Born to John T. and Anna McNally in Bay Ridge on October 17, 1933, John joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 as a kiddie cruiser and served for four years in the Korean War. At age 22, he married Elaine Hansen, and they had four children.

            In 1955, John joined the NYPD where he quickly worked his way up in the ranks, becoming the youngest officer promoted to first grade detective. His decorated career was highlighted by his involvement in the “Murf the Surf” case, where John and his partners recovered precious gems stolen from the American Museum of Natural History. He retired with 22 citation medals. John continued his career as a renowned private investigator, having been personally sought-out by famed attorney F. Lee Bailey, working countless high-profile cases including the Watergate Commission hearings, and the Patty Hearst, Claus von Bülow, Bernhard Goetz, and OJ Simpson cases. In addition to his work in the NYPD and as a PI, in the 1970s, John co-owned a hotel and bar/restaurant in New York City.

            John was always extremely generous and caring to all friends and family. Over the years, John’s generosity evolved into philanthropy, donating to various charities including St. Jude’s, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, disabled alumni of Tottenville High School, and Wall Street Rides for Autism Research Foundation. His only son, John C. McNally played football at Tottenville High School before his tragic passing at the age of 21. John later founded the John C. McNally Memorial Fund in his son’s honor. Originally founded to provide underprivileged football players at Tottenville High School with an opportunity to attend camp and play football, the success of the fund during its 20-year run, from 1998-2018, allowed it to branch out and ultimately provide college scholarships and donations to several different individuals and charities.

            For all his varied success and accomplishments, John’s greatest love was spending time with his family. He created endless memories with his family and friends, going to his favorite restaurants, attending events, and waiting for the next opportunity to prank an unsuspecting loved one. He enjoyed traveling all over the world, most especially spending time with family in Ireland, as well as at his beachside homes in East Atlantic Beach, NY and Jupiter, FL.

            John, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, is survived by his three daughters: Deborah McNally, Lynn Cook (Jerry), and Eileen Pellettiere (Vincent); six grandchildren: Justin Kiernan (Kristen), John-Charles Kiernan, John-Vincent Pellettiere, Elaine Pellettiere, Trevor Cook, and Delia Pellettiere; two great-grandsons: Ethan and Owen Kiernan; sister: Emily Dannic (Roger); and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his son, John was predeceased by his wife Elaine, and sisters Jean Ricaforte (Antonio) and Harriet Semple.

The wake will be held at Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, 7447 Amboy Road, Staten Island, New York, 10307 on Thursday and Friday, June 1^st and June 2^nd ,2023, from 2pm-4pm and 7pm-9pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Charles Church, 644 Clawson St, Staten Island, New York, 10306 on Saturday, June 3^rd, 2023, followed by the burial at Resurrection Cemetery, 361 Sharrott Ave, Staten Island, New York, 10309. There will be a repast held at Nucci’s South, 4842 Arthur Kill Rd, Staten Island, New York, 10309, following the burial.

For flower orders, please call Moravian Florist- 718-351-4440