In the quiet early hours of January 2nd, Montauk lost one of its most enduring spirits. John Keeshan passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children. A true gentleman and cornerstone of the community, John lived a life defined by integrity, generosity, and deep devotion to the place he called home.
Born in Queens, New York, John was raised by his widowed mother, whose tireless work and strength shaped his compassion and determination. At 18, he joined the U.S. Navy, where his outgoing nature and distinctive voice led him to Armed Forces Radio. After his honorable discharge, John returned to New York City and began a career in FM radio, where he met his wife of 64 years, Eileen Gallagher. They married in 1960 and soon settled in Staten Island.
Introduced to Montauk by Eileen, John made a bold decision to leave his corporate career and build a better life for his family-one rooted in community. After earning his real estate license in 1973, he opened his own brokerage in 1975, establishing one of Montauk’s most trusted and respected firms. The Keeshan name became synonymous with integrity and local knowledge.
John’s service to Montauk was extensive. He served with the Fire Department and Ambulance Squad, founded and led the Montauk Library, helped bring streetlights to downtown, and supported the renovation of St. Therese of Lisieux Church. An avid runner and golfer, he founded the Montauk Turkey Day Run for Fun and served as vice president of the Amagansett Golf Club.
John also worked tirelessly to preserve Montauk’s natural beauty. He helped rename Montauk Plaza as Carl Fisher Plaza, protected public access to places like Navy Beach, and took great pride in seeing utility wires buried at the entrance to Montauk Village and along Old Montauk Highway. He often joked, “They’re going to bury those wires before they bury me,” and lived to see that vision realized. When you drive into Montauk and take in the clear, open horizon, think of John and smile…he would like that.
John is survived by his children, Nancy Keeshan and Edwin Keeshan of Montauk. He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed. A service was held at St. Therese of Lisieux Church in Montauk on January 24th.
Donations in his memory may be made to the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) at 631-537-0400.