Nassau Police Announce Services After 9/11-Related Death Of Former 2nd Deputy Commissioner John Kennedy

BAYVILLE, NY — With deep sorrow, the Nassau County Police Department announced the 9/11-related line of duty death of retired officer John G. Kennedy, and his funeral arrangements for the evening of May 29.

Kennedy was the Nassau County Police Department 2nd Deputy Commissioner of Police and served his community for decades – he was appointed to the NCPD on January 20, 1958. The retired officer and Bayville resident lived a life of service, rising through the ranks until he retired in 2002.

"Our hearts, prayers, and condolences go out to the entire Kennedy family and their friends during this time of
grief," the NCPD shared.

The wake will be held on May 29 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Oyster Bay Funeral Home located at 261 South Street in Oyster Bay.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 30, at 10 a.m., at the St. Gertrude RC Church located at 28 School Street in Bayville.

Kennedy passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, his obituary by the Oyster Bay Funeral Home reads.

His obituary states that Kennedy was born in Brooklyn in 1936 and found his way to the NCPD. As a "lifelong learner," he earned a Master's degree from LIU College C.W. Post and a law degree from Hofstra University.

"Though officially retired, John's commitment to the department and community never wavered. He continued serving as Director of Crime Stoppers and as attorney for the Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe Band.

For 23 years, he lent his wisdom and fairness as a respected labor arbitrator. Until his death, he served as an associate judge for the Incorporated Village of Bayville, provided invaluable research and technical assistance to bestselling author Nelson DeMille, directed the Oak Neck Athletic League Bocce program, acted as a referee in Nassau County foreclosures, and served as Vice President and Treasurer of the Baymen's Heritage Association."

The obituary continued, stating that Kennedy's family meant the world to him.

"Above all, John was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from those he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Carol; his children John (Terry), the late Michael, Todd (Jenny), and Jennifer Evers (Jonathan); six cherished grandchildren; six precious great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of loving friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and generosity.

A lifetime of quiet heroism, unwavering principle, and deep love for family and community defined John. He will be remembered not only for the many roles he filled with distinction, but for the way he made everyone around him feel safe, valued, and cared for."

Instead of flowers, contributions may be made in Kennedy's memory to the Nassau County Police Foundation in the Line of Duty Fund or the Baymen's Heritage Association.