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He was born in Rockville Center, N.Y. on Feb. 15, 1949, son of Michael McGerty and Rose Cappellani. He grew up in West Hempstead, N.Y. and was a member of West Hempstead Fire Department.
In 1969, he enlisted in the Army to serve his country as a sergent, aircraft mechanic and firefighter during the Vietnam War for three years.
He was a firefighter for over 55 years. He served the Holbrook Fire Department as a two term Fire Chief and as an elected Fire Commissioner for the District. He worked in the Fire Rescue Department of Mac Authur Airport in Ronkonkoma N.Y.
Following his retirement, Stephen moved to Stoddard and served as fire chief for five years on the Stoddard Fire and Rescue Department. In addition, he was elected to the board of selectmen for two terms.
Survivors include his loving wife, Deborah; two sons, Richard Paye (Claudia) and Stephen P. McGerty (Loren); a daughter, Tara Trinkle; grandchildren Stephanie, Richard, Cameron, Brittany, Alexis, McKenzie, Hudson and Dakota. He was predeceased by a daughter, Kathryn.
He served his country and community with pride and dignity. He was loved for his sense of humor and loyalty and was admired by all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Foley Funeral Home, 49 Court St., Keene.
Services will continue in Holbrook, N.Y. with visitation, a funeral mass and burial in the Calverton National Cemetery at dates and times to be published soon.
Services in New York are entrusted to the Moloney Funeral Home of Holbrook.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
Foley Funeral Home of Keene is entrusted with Stephen’s care. To leave a memory or condolences to the family, visit www.foleyfuneralhome.com