James Thomas Patrick Deely

James T. Deely, age 65, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, October 29th, 2017, from a probable heart attack at his home in Sonoma, California. He was born January 4th, 1952, in San Francisco and was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Christina Deely.

James grew up in the Sunset District in San Francisco with his brothers and sisters. His Irish heritage was something he proudly represented and often celebrated with his family.  James recently attended his 50th-year reunion for St. Anne’s Elementary of San Francisco, where he gathered with many close friends of the class of 1966. He graduated from Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco in 1970 with a prolific football career, that later fueled a love for coaching and sports photography. He was a San Francisco Sheriff from 1974 to 1978 and then continued on to the San Francisco Police Department from 1978 until his retirement in 2006. 

Although he was a San Francisco native, he lived in Sonoma for over 15 years. On February 10th, 1990, and October 30th, 1993, he welcomed his two children whom he was immensely proud of.  

All who knew and loved Officer Jim Deely will always remember his extraordinary work ethic, passion to protect, and his uncanny ability to make you laugh. There was nothing he loved more than an interesting conversation with a good (or new) friend, and he could have an engaging conversation with anyone. 

James was a true cowboy at heart, and had a passion for the rich history of his ancestors in Lakeview, Oregon. When he wasn’t on duty, he was entering team roping competitions throughout Northern California and enjoyed a hobby of sheepherding with his beloved Border Collies, Buddy and Gibbs.

After serving over 25 years of service for the SFPD, he retired in Sonoma and became a proud grandfather to Scarlett James Thompson on February 7th, 2016. He is survived by his two brothers, Michael Deely and Tom Deely; his two sisters, Bernadette Bardine and Mary Brady; his son, Michael E. Deely; his daughter, Victoria Thompson; and his granddaughter, Scarlett Thompson. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins from around the world. He will be deeply missed by all his friends, family and loved ones who cherished him, his service, and the many stories and memories that will carry on. 

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 10th, at St. Francis Solano Church in Sonoma. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Archbishop Riordan High School of San Francisco. A scholarship fund for future Crusaders of Riordan has been started in honor of James Deely.

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