Dennis Delay

Dennis Delay, 75, of Long Beach, NY passed away on March 18, 2024, surrounded by family.

Dennis is a storied alumni of St. Christopher’s Prisoner of War School, a decorated Vietnam War Veteran, and a retired legend of the Nassau County Police Department’s Bureau of Special Operations. His sense of justice and his memory were matched only by his wit, humor, and storytelling.

He was not one for sentimentality, but held a deep passion (just don’t tell him we used that word) for nature, fishing, camping, kayaking, woodworking, perfecting the backyard tomato garden, junk food, current events, logic, a good stiff drink, and his family. He was the best of fathers, the fiercest of friends, and the finest of humans. They do not make them like Dennis anymore.

His great superpower was making you laugh uncontrollably and feel deeply uncomfortable, often at the same time. To be teased by Dennis was to be loved deeply.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Maurice and Doris Delay, and his brother Billy. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary, and his adoring family - son Patrick (Bryana), daughter Deidre (David) Santos, brother Tom, sisters Patricia (Robert) Campbell and Mary Alfaro, nephew Keith (Yohana) Alfaro, and beloved granddaughter Maya Grace.

He will be missed so much and his absence will be felt by all who love him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dennis’ memory to the National Kidney Foundation or the Cerebral Palsy Foundation of Nassau County.

Visitation will take place at Tower’s Funeral Home on Thursday, March 21, 4-8pm. A funeral mass will take place Friday, March 22, 9:45am at St. Anthony’s in Oceanside, followed by burial at Calverton National Cemetery.