John J. Kellegher, 79, passed away on Thursday evening, February 12, 2026, at Treasure Coast Hospice in Fort Pierce, Fl.

John was born on January 27, 1947, in Catskill, NY, son of the late Patrick and Winifred Kellegher.

He attended Cairo High School. John and his wife Virginia lived in East Durham then retired to Port St Lucie, Fl in June of 2010.

John was drafted in 1966 at the age of 19 to the U.S. Army for the Vietnam War. He served in the 243rd Aviation Company during the Vietnam War.

John returned home in 1968 to the family business: The Shamrock House in East Durham, NY.

John married Virginia Mulcahy on June 1, 1974. He was a communicant of Our Lady of Knock Shrine in East Durham. John was a 61-year life member of the East Durham Volunteer Fire Company (joined in 1965), East Durham Vacationland Association, VFW, American Legion Post 1416 and later American Legion Post 291, Greenville. He was also a Life Member of the East Durham Irish Cultural & Sports Centre.

He was one of the founders of the Northeast USA Vietnam Veterans Reunion Association.

John is survived by his brother Neil (Eileen) Kellegher of East Durham, NY; sister Carolanne (Werner) Ommerborn of Centerville, MA; and brother-in-law Ralph Kelly of Slingerlands, NY. As well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and grand nephews.

John is predeceased by his wife, Virginia, of 43 years; his brother Patrick (Mary) Kellegher; and sister Mary K. Kelly.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, April 17 from 4-7 p.m. at the East Durham Firehouse at 2401 Route 145, East Durham. Funeral mass will be offered on Saturday, April 18 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Knock Shrine, 2052 State Route 145, East Durham. Burial will follow at Winston Cemetery, East Durham.

Condolences may be left at www.ajcunninghamfh.com.

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