New City, NY — John F. Meehan, a longtime Rockland County public servant, died on September 5 at the age of 84.
Meehan, a three-term legislator and lifelong resident of Suffern, is remembered for his collaborative spirit and commitment to improving the lives of county residents across party lines. First elected in 1973, Meehan served during a formative era before the creation of the County Executive’s Office, when local leaders were laying the groundwork for the services and infrastructure that remain in place today.
“On behalf of the Legislature, we extend our deepest condolences to John Meehan’s family and friends,” said Rockland County Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr. “His efforts helped build the foundation of many of the services our community continues to rely on.”
Among Meehan’s most enduring legacies is the establishment of the Rockland County Office for the Aging. His advocacy helped launch initiatives such as Meals on Wheels and the Association for the Visually Impaired—programs that continue to serve thousands of residents. As chair of the Legislature’s Jail and Sheriff’s Headquarters Construction Committee, he also played a role in planning and overseeing the construction of modernized public safety facilities.
After 12 years in office, Meehan retired from the Legislature in 1985 to devote more time to his family and a career in municipal consulting. His retirement came shortly after breaking ground on the new Sheriff’s Headquarters and County Jail—projects he helped bring to fruition.
Beyond county government, Meehan remained engaged in public life. He served multiple terms on the Suffern Village Board as both trustee and deputy mayor and continued his service through volunteer work with local nonprofits, including AARP Tax Aide and Meals on Wheels.
Meehan is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carole, their children, and grandchildren.
To learn more about Meehan’s life and contributions, visit: http://bit.ly/45ZsqT9.