Thomas George Coffey

Retired Nyack Chief of Police

March 17, 1930 – October 19,2024

Thomas George Coffey, of Pearl River NY passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the age of 94. Born on St. Patrick’s Day, 1930 in Nyack, NY. Tom lived a life marked by service, leadership, and a deep love for his family and community.

Tom was a graduate of Haverstraw High School and went on to get a degree in Animal Husbandry from the NYS Institute of Agriculture at Cobleskill. After graduation he was drafted into the army during the Korean War.

In 1955 he met the love of his life Ruth A. O’Hara and married her later that year.

Tom was a proud member of various law enforcement and veterans’ organizations. He was a long-standing member of the New York State and Rockland County Retired Chiefs of Police Association, the Retired Police Association of the State of NY, and the American Legion, where he served in many roles, including Former Commander of the John Secor Post 329 in Pearl River and various roles at the state and county level. Tom was passionate about supporting Blue Star families and The Boys Club. He also ran and supported the Camp Shanks Museum for many years preserving the history of those who served. Tom remained an active member of the Korean War Veterans’ organization, and his service to his country was a point of immense pride.

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Tom also served as President of the Pearl River Little League (1974-1984) after spending many years as a coach. The “Coffey House” was dedicated to him and his service to Pearl River Little League. His commitment to the community’s youth was well known.

Tom’s dedication to law enforcement was unmatched. He began his career as a Patrolman in Piermont eventually transferring to the Village of Nyack in 1956, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Police, a position he held for many years. He served with distinction for 32 years, retiring as Chief of the Nyack Police Department.

A true pillar of the community, Tom Coffey will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his family and the people he served will never be forgotten.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Tom is survived by his children: Clare Mulqueen (Michael), Thomas G. Coffey Jr. (Catherine), Michael J. Coffey (Jeanne), and James P. Coffey. He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his sisters Lorraine Holmes and Genevieve Coffey and brother-in-law George O’Hara (Betty).

Tom was predeceased by his cherished wife of 69 years, Ruth A. Coffey, and his grandson, Michael J. Coffey Jr.

Visitation will be held at Hannemann Funeral Home Wednesday October 23, 2024 from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM. Funeral Mass to be held at St. Aedan’s Church, Reld Drive in Pearl River, NY at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of this remarkable man. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Ruth.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Tom’s name to United Hospice of Rockland.