Deacon John J. Buckley, a Former Area Resident, Dies at 75

Deacon John J. Buckley, 75, entered into rest on August 27, 2017 in Clearwater, FL. Born in New York City on August 26, 1942, he was the son of the late Timothy and Christina (O’Riordan) Buckley.

A retired member of the New York Police Department, John graduated from Ladycliff College where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree, and New York University with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1962 to 1968. John married his loving wife, the former Helen Magorrian, at St. Simon Stock Church, on April 24, 1965. They were married for 52 years.

John was ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacon for the Archdiocese of NY on May 14, 1988. He faithfully served the parishioners of both St. Francis of Assisi and St. Mary’s parishes in Newburgh. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Cursillo, Catholic War Veterans and St. Vincent de Paul Society. John also worked with the residents at Kairos Prison Residents Encounter Christ Ministry.

John is survived by his loving wife Helen, his daughters, Colleen Ogden of Largo, FL, Eileen Cassisi of Newburgh, Christine Bilyou of Newburgh, Kathleen Milano of Montgomery: his son John Buckley of Newburgh: grandchildren, Dana Bedetti, Quinn Ogden, Alana Matson, Michael Bilyou, Tierney Bilyou, William Milano, Brandon Milano, Vincent Cassisi, Isabella Cassisi; great-grandaughters Michela Matson and Vianna Bedetti; his brother Dennis Buckley of White Plains; as well as 23 nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his sister Ann Buckley and Joan Cassidy.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm on Thursday, August 31 at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 145 Benkard Ave. Newburgh. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday, September 1 at St. Francis Church, with burial following in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Newburgh.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Deacon John’s memory to St. Francis of Assisi Church, 145 Benkard Ave. Newburgh, NY 12550.