Obituary of Dennis Patrick Leahy

Dennis Patrick Leahy, 68, of Howell passed away on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at Complete Care at Green Acres, Toms River.  He was born and raised in Staten Island and settled here in 1995.  A dedicated worker, Dennis served as an NYPD officer for over 20 years despite all the personal sacrifice his job required.  A true hero, Dennis was a 9/11 first responder.  He was also a  member of the PBA and Captain of Emergency Services Harbor Unit.  Dennis loved spending time on the water, whether it be on the beach, on boats or cruise ships. He was an animal lover and was also great with kids.  

Dennis was predeceased by his father, James Leahy.  He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Rita Leahy of Howell; three sons, Sean Leahy and his wife, Erin of Ocean, Christopher Leahy and his fiancée, Alexandra Petrizzo of Brick, and Ryan Leahy and his wife, Kelly of Toms River, granddaughters, Maeve, Raegan, Deni and Luci; mother, Katherine Leahy of FL; siblings, Cathy Thompson and her husband, Daniel of FL, Timothy Leahy and his wife, Kathy of FL, and Colleen Hawkins and her husband, Michael of CT; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Monday, October 3, 2022 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend his 10:30 AM Funeral Mass on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at the Church of St. Veronica, 4215 Route 9 North, Howell.  interment is private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Dennis may be made to Alzheimer’s New Jersey, 425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ 07068. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com