James Lombard, a dedicated contributor to New York's Irish community in multiple ways and many levels over many years, has died at the age of 88.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife Rosemary in May, 2017.
Back in 2008, with still many years of community work ahead of him, James was honored by the Irish Echo in the Best of the Bronx Awards.
His profile at the time read: "James A. Lombard a native Bronxite, is a first generation Irish American of Mayo and Cork lineage. A graduate of Iona College, Lombard holds a Masters Degree from New York University. He served two years active duty as Sergeant with the U.S. Marine Corps, Sixth Marine Division.
"A former bank officer, Lombard began his public service career in 1976 when he joined the staff of New York City Council President Paul O’Dwyer, where he held the position of First Assistant to the President. He subsequently served in the City Council for 25 years under the leadership of the late Majority Leader Thomas J. Cuite and Speaker Peter F. Vallone and Gifford Miller.
"In October 2002, Lombard retired from his as Director, Administrative Services Division. He is the president of The Irish Institute, Inc., a non-profit organization. He serves on the board of the Emerald Isle Immigration Center, Daxor Corporation, and the Mayo Society of New York.
"Among the many organizations of which he is a member are the County Cork B.P. and P. Association; Div. 3 New York County Ancient Order of Hibernians; the Ireland-U.S. Council; and the Knights of St. Patrick. Lombard resides in the Bronx with his wife Rosemary, a retired teacher from the New York public school system. They are members of St. Philip of Neri Parish."
In a statement, the United Irish Counties Association of New York stated: "Sincere and heartfelt condolences are extended to Stephen Lombard and the Lombard, Murphy and Yetter Families on the passing of their beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle and grand-uncle, on Tuesday 17 October.
"A past president and longtime member of the Mayo Society of New York, Jim was also a longtime delegate to the UICANY. An active participant in civic and community affairs, Jim’s involvement in and dedication to so many other organizations was numerous."
The UICANY statement added to the earlier 2008 profile stating: "In October 2002, Jim retired as Director, Administrative Services Division, City Council of New York. He was a past president of the Irish Institute of New York and past Chairman of the Knights of St. Patrick. He served on the board of the Emerald Isle Immigration Center, and at the time of his passing still served on the Board of Directors of Daxor Corporation, the Mayo Society of New York, the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the MJQ Irish Cultural & Sports Centre as well as the Board of Trustees of the Irish Institute of New York. Among the many organizations of which Jim was a member are the County Cork B.P. and P. Association, Ancient Order of Hibernians Div. 3 New York County and the Ireland-U.S. Council. Jim has left behind a wealth of family and friends and he will be so sorely missed, but never forgotten."
A Wake will be held on Sunday, October 29, 2 to 5 p.m. at the Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Avenue in the Bronx.
The Mayo Society of New York will gather at 4 p.m. to pay their respects to Jim’s family. Delegates to the UICANY will join in with the Mayo Society to pay their respects. All are requested to wear county sashes. A funeral Mass will take place on Monday morning, October 30 at 9.45 in St. Margaret of Cortona Church, 6000 Riverdale Avenue. Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 10 West Stevens Avenue, Hawthorne, in Westchester County.
