John J. Hanley
December 19, 1939 ~ April 21, 2026
Born in:
Queens, New York
Resided in:
Nesconset, New York
John Hanley brought color into the world, and we are all grateful for the opportunity to continue reflecting that light for years to come.
More than sixty years ago, John made one of the best decisions of his life when he asked Ingrid to become his wife. Together, they built a beautiful family that now spans three generations: his children, Kevin & Terri Hanley, Denise & Jim Reich, and Lisa Miller; his grandchildren, Owen & Bridget Hanley, Jack, Sarah & Sean Reich, Grace & Jamie Miller, and Erin & Matt Swansey; and his great-grandson, John Swansey. They also carried in their hearts the loss of their infant son, Eric.
John’s roots ran deep. He grew up alongside his sister, Mary, in the very house where he was born – a home he remained in until he married Ingrid – laying the foundation for a life centered on family, loyalty, and tradition.
His legacy is defined by a lifetime commitment to service. He devoted himself to caring for his parents, Peter and Beatrice Hanley, as well as his aunts throughout their lives. He also lovingly cared for Oma and Joey, extending that same devotion to Ingrid’s mother and brother.
John was immensely proud of his work on the space program in the 1960s, beginning his career at Grumman Aerospace, where he helped develop state-of-the-art electrofilters for the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM).
Later, choosing to prioritize his family, John transitioned from engineering to teaching. Over the course of his decades-long career, he touched the lives of countless students and stood up for his fellow educators as a dedicated union representative.
He also served his community with pride – as a member of the Smithtown Environmental Board, a founding member of the Parish of the Holy Cross, an usher, a Eucharistic Minister, and a trusted advisor to the Bishop on several diocesan committees.
John especially cherished the time he spent with his immediate family, his nieces and nephews, and his many close friends forming bonds and creating lasting memories with each of them.
John often spoke about what a wonderful life he had and insisted that we not be sad when he was gone. That may be too much to ask, but we can honor him by living each day guided by the same faith, love, and positivity that defined his life.
In John’s own wise words, “Let’s take a moment to be grateful for amazing friends, our wonderful family, and for everything we have” almost always followed by a joyful, “Let’s eat!” His presence filled every room with a warmth and energy you could truly feel, and it is that light, along with his unforgettable smile, that will stay with all of us always
Services
Visitation:
Friday, April 24, 2026
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Branch Funeral Home Smithtown
190 E. Main St.
SMITHTOWN, NY 11787
Mass:
Saturday, April 25, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Interment of Cremains:
Saturday, April 25, 2026
11:30 am
St. Patrick's Cemetery Smithtown
Mount Pleasant Road
SMITHTOWN, NY 11787
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in John J. Hanley 's name.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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I worked with John for many years and post retirement, met up with him monthly as part of the ROMEO club. He was an awesome teacher and Union man. He supported my efforts and actually reached out to me to teach at the Stony Brook school one summer. I am blessed to have known one of the good ones.
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. John was truly one of a kind—kind-hearted, warm, and effortlessly welcoming to everyone he met. He had a way about him that made people feel comfortable and valued, and that’s a rare and special gift.
He leaves behind such a meaningful legacy in the lives he touched, and he will be genuinely missed by so many. Our thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time, and we’re sending love, strength, and comfort your way.
Wishing your family condolences through this difficult time.
It was always a pleasure to see John at the extended Mullen family gatherings. His smile, enthusiasm and energy were never lacking. Steve and I send our love and sympathy to all the family.
Dear Ingrid and Family,
My heartfelt condolences to you all. I met John through my brother Roy at our family gatherings in Nesconset. John was such a
positive person to talk to and always had a kind word for everyone. It is overwhelming to go through life with somebody and then
realize they aren’t there anymore…celebrate all the wonderful years you had John…take time to grieve and to reflect and sift through
your memories. May God give you all strength at this difficult time.
Words are difficult at a time like this. 60 years of love and friendship has meant the world to George and I. Beginning with John and George’s first job at Grumman. Through marriages, children, grandchildren and now great grandchildren, we have been together all the way. What a great honor t to have had John in our lives! Through good times and bad, you have been with us. Through laughter and tears you were there for us and we will be there for you. The mass was absolutely beautiful and a testament to what a wonderful man he was. Memories will sustain us until we meet again! We love you all so much!
Words are difficult at a time like this. 60 years of love and friendship has meant the world to George and I. Beginning with John and George’s first job at Grumman. Through marriages, children, grandchildren and now great grandchildren, we have been together all the way. What a great honor t to have had John in our lives! Through good times and bad, you have been with us. Through laughter and tears you were there for us and we will be there for you. The mass was absolutely beautiful and a testament to what a wonderful man he was. Memories will sustain us until we meet again! We love you all so much! The last words John said to us were “It’s been a great ride!”
Dear Ingrid and family,
My wife Patti and I were greatly saddened to hear of John’s passing, he was truly a good man. We taught together and worked together as union officers for many years and he was not only a friend, but also a mentor and role model, I owe him so much! Patti worked in District Office and said he was always a pleasure to work with on union matters. We are so sorry for his loss, our prayers are with you.
Joe and Patti Hurley
Dear Ingrid and Family,
I am very sorry to hear of John’s passing. Simply the best colleague, teacher, union man and friend.
I am very proud to say I knew John Hanley!
Sincerely,
Billy Paul