James E. Meehan, Jr., a loving husband and father, passed away on February 6, 2023, at the age of 78. James was born on July 27,1944 to James Eugene and Hester Angelina Meehan. He is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Geraldine Ann Meehan.
James leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 16 years, Diane Merritt Meehan, his four children with Geraldine, James (Karen) Meehan III, Michael (Cassie) Meehan, Kenneth (Stacy) Meehan and Colleen (James) Diapoules, which also includes his grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Jillian, Makenna, Madison, Patrick, Connor, Megan, Kellie, Kenny, Ryan, Jake and Mia and his great-grandchild, Jameson. In addition to these, his step children Lisa Cassell and Dawn (Doug) Samstag and step grandchildren Kyle and Kara, along with his two sisters, Patricia Welles and Kathy Wehr, will honor his impact in their lives.
James “Big Jim” is a decorated veteran of the US Navy and served during the Vietnam War. For his service, he earned the Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon and the Good Conduct Award and had achieved rank of Enginemen 5. He also was recognized for his
design of the Stack Plate while on the USS Fort Fisher, now parked in Wilmington, North Carolina, which can be viewed by all who visit.
Big Jim’s experience in the Navy played a very important role in his life. He frequently pointed out the Navy taught him the value of discipline and teamwork. He went on to serve 30 years as chief engineer for New York City Tugboat Union 333.
James was a proud supporter of veterans, often finding work for those in need. He was the founder and president of Inshore Undersea Warfare Group (IUWG) 1-5 since 2001. This group, spear-headed by Big Jim, eventually honored 13 fallen Vietnam War Comrades by restoring an original vessel, similar to one he served on in Vietnam, that was located at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida. After restoration, the vessel became fondly referred to as “The Shark Teeth Boat”, and Big Jim continually coveted and maintained this over the years.
Big Jim was a provider and protector of all, especially his family. Jim had a contagious likability that was endeared by all. He was a masterful storyteller and brought laughter wherever he went. He will always be remembered for his light-hearted, kind and loving spirit.
There will be a Celebration of Life on Thursday, February 16th, 2023, at VFW Hall in Jensen Beach, Florida at 4:00 pm and on March 3rd, 2023.
A visitation will take place on Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at OB Davis Funeral home at 1001 Rte 25A, Miller Place, NY 11764 from 10:30 am -12:00 pm, which precedes Big Jim’s burial service the same day at Calverton National Cemetery at 1:00 pm.
Due to National Cemetery restrictions, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to the
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, FL www.navysealmuseum.org, 3300 North Highway A1A, Fort Pierce, Florida, 34949
Please sign the online memorial book for Big Jim at James Meehan Obituary - Miller Place, NY
www.dignitymemorial.com
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.youngandprill.com for the Meehan family.
