James Dwyer

James Bernard Dwyer, born January 26, 1932, in San Francisco, California, passed peacefully on February 8, 2015, at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland.

His two daughters, Margaret (Peggy) Dwyer-Major and Mary Dwyer, his grandson, Joshua Major, his two closest confidantes, Arun Kansagra and Andrea McCarty, and other devoted friends, were by his side for the six days leading up to his journey to be with God.

James enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War as a Cryptologist from 1952 to 1955.  He then graduated from the University of San Francisco, where he earned a Bachelors of Arts Degree in History.

Subsequently, James was offered a position as an Analyst with the National Security Agency, where he worked for about 40 years and retired as a GS17.   He was highly regarded not only for his brilliance as an Analyst but also for his strong dedication in protecting our Country.

James was known for his intellect, extremely keen sense of humor, infectious smile, highly interesting stories, great wisdom, uniquely enormous heart and very generous spirit.  Because of his incredible attributes, James had a plethora of friends, who highly respected and cherished him.

His huge heart also encompassed enormous compassion and deep commitment to homeless stray cats.  Over the years, he opened his home to countless cats and gave them a wonderful life.  Additionally, he was an avid supporter of numerous animal rescue organizations, his favorite being the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (“PETA”).

James is survived by his beloved fiancé, Gail Reinheimer, his two daughters, Margaret (Peggy) Dwyer-Major and Mary Dwyer, his grandson, Joshua James Major, his two adoring sisters, Elizabeth Dwyer and Margaret Lesley, his brother, George Dwyer, his nephew, William Dwyer, and his much, loved cousin Mary Hertel.

Visitation will held at 10:00 am and a Christian Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 21, 2015, at the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8402 Brock Bridge Road, Laurel, Maryland  20724.  Immediately following the service, a reception for family and friends will be held at Sapphire’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, 13308 Laurel Bowie Road, Laurel, Maryland  20708.  A private burial will take place at Arlington Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to PETA, 501 Front Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510, (757) 622-7382.