John Michael Spellman, a distinguished attorney, devoted educator, and pillar of the Garden City and Mineola communities, passed away on April 8, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on September 14, 1944 to Warren and Edna May Spellman, John was the first of fourteen children. As the eldest, he naturally stepped into a leadership role for his eight sisters and five brothers, a position of guidance and care that he held throughout his life.

Education and Faith

John’s life was deeply rooted in faith and a love of learning. He attended Most Holy Trinity in Brooklyn before pursuing his calling with the Marianists at the University of Dayton, where he earned his B.A. in 1965. His educational journey continued at St. Louis University, eventually leading him to a career in law. He earned his Juris Doctor from St. John’s University School of Law and later obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from New York University.

A Legacy of Service

John’s professional life was a testament to his commitment to justice and community. He began his career in the classroom, teaching at Maria Regina High School, before transitioning into a legal career that spanned nearly half a century. A licensed attorney for 49 years, John founded and built his practice in Mineola, specializing in civil rights, land use, and zoning. He was the founding partner at Spellman Walsh, LLC (now Spellman Gibbons Polizzi Truncale & Trentacoste, LLP). Throughout John’s career, he dedicated much of his practice to public service, representing the Villages of Mineola, Williston Park, Roslyn and many other clients.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was a compassionate member of his community. He was instrumental in supporting Dominican Village, The Garden City Community Fund, Harvest House, Birthright, and Common Bond- an organization for former Marianists. His heritage and community ties were further reflected in his involvement with the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, as well as his deep-seated support for Kellenberg Memorial and Chaminade High School.

Life and Family

Outside of his professional life, John found great happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid golfer who cherished afternoons on the course spent with dear friends- especially the Woodpeckers. John loved cooking with his family and making Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve dinners legendary by having large gatherings of relatives and friends over. His happiest moments were often found on the water, taking his grandchildren on boat rides on “Two of a Kind” in Tiana Bay.

On May 26, 1972, John married Kathleen Eich Spellman, beginning a 53-year journey of love and partnership. He was a proud and devoted father to his two daughters and their husbands: Kathie and Brian Scollard, and Christine and Doug Bersani.

His greatest legacy is found in his seven incredible grandchildren: John, Catherine, MollieMay, Elizabeth, and Ryan Scollard; and Mary and Danny Bersani. John will be remembered as a man of great intellect, faith, integrity, and humor, whose legacy lives on through his large family and the countless lives he touched.

Service Information

Visitation: Sunday, April 12, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM Fairchild Sons Funeral Home 1201 Franklin Ave, Garden City, NY 11530
Funeral Mass: Monday, April 13, 2026 | 9:45 AM St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church 130 5th St, Garden City, NY 11530