EAST FISHKILL - Vincent "Vinnie" Heraty died peacefully on November 21, 2024 at his home in Hopewell Junction, NY after a courageous battle with cancer. Vinnie was born on April 21, 1964 in Tiernacroagha, Westport, Co. Mayo to the late Tim and Annie (Kerrigan) Heraty.

In 1981, Vincent joined the Irish Army and was stationed at Finner Camp, Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal. During his six years with the Army, he served two terms with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in South Lebanon. Following his discharge from the army in 1987, Vincent arrived in New York with his future wife, Julie, on September 11 of that year.

On August 19, 1989, Vinnie married his soulmate, Julie Friel, in Drummin, Westport. They began their married life and family in Woodlawn where Vinnie worked construction until he began his career with Local 94 as a fireman with the New York City Schools in the Bronx. He also continued his work as a self-employed painter on the side.

In 2001, Vincent and Julie moved to Hopewell Junction where they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Vinnie was a devoted father to his three sons, always involved in their sporting events, and offering unwavering support and encouragement. Known for his quick wit, he brought much enjoyment to everyone he met.

He was deeply committed to his Irish roots and was an active member of the NY Mayo GAA Football Club, where he proudly served as President and in other various roles. No matter how far the journey, Vinnie rarely missed a Sunday at Gaelic Park in the Bronx. Vinnie built many friendships through his involvement in the club, connections that he carried with him throughout his life. Vinnie's love for Mayo football knew no bounds, and he could often be found in the Hogan Stand on a September Sunday, having made the long journey home to Ireland, sporting his red and green.

Vinnie had a true passion for playing cards, always eager to take on a game of 25. Known for his impressive card tricks, he never failed to bring a smile to everyone's face. Vinnie was always the life of the party; with a joke ready for any occasion and a knack for playfully scaring people, he kept everyone laughing with his mischievous sense of humor.

Despite facing countless hardships, including the loss of his cherished son, Niall, and many family members through the years, Vinnie's faith only grew stronger. Vinnie proudly served as a greeter at St. Columba Church every Saturday for the 5:30 mass.

Vinnie is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Julie, his son Conor and wife Sydney, and his son Ryan; his loyal companion and protector, Ace; his siblings and their spouses, Paddy and Theresa Heraty, Mary McGreal, Petie and Patricia Heraty, Philomena and Michael Higgins, Michael Heraty, Paul and Teresa Heraty, and Monica and Dominick McGreal; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews and friends.

He is now reunited in heaven with his son, Niall; his parents; his siblings, Desmond, Anne, Tony, Tommy, Timmy, John, Gerard, and Winnie; and his in-laws, Joseph and Ann Friel.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 3-8 p.m. at McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, followed by interment at St. Denis Cemetery.

To leave a condolence or watch the livestream of Vinnie's Mass of Christian Burial, please visit his Book of Memories page at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com. The livestream will be recorded for viewing on his page after the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Vinnie's honor.