STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Jody Haggerty, who took over a sleepy Forest Avenue saloon four decades ago and built it into a restaurant whose waiting lines stretched out the door on busy nights, died Thursday at Richmond University Medical Center, West Brighton.
He was 67, according to family members.
Over the years, Jody's Club Forest became headquarters for the Island's St. Patrick's Day Parade, the original Pepper Martin Run (now the Arielle Newman Run) and numerous meetings -- official and not -- of the local political class.
It was also home to one of the largest NCAA Tournament pools in the country.
The bar-restaurant would become an anchor to the eatery boom of the 1970s and 80s that turned the Forest Avenue strip into the destination it is today.
The father of five, and, with his wife, Mary, grandparent of eight, Haggerty also volunteered for years as the golf coach at St. Peter's High School, New Brighton.
Until recent months the one-time parochial school teacher could be found every morning preparing the restaurant for opening, worrying over his Mets, and, whenever he had the opportunity, nudging local politicians to do a better job.
Down through the years, he's been a supporter of just about every Island-based charity and sports league that walked through the door looking for assistance.
"Jody was the quintessential Forest Avenue Tavern owner pouring his whole remarkable being into the welcoming bar and restaurant that so many consider a second home," said District Attorney Michael E. McMahon. "He approached life with a twinkle in his eye, a good story to tell, a song in his heart, and fierce love and loyalty for his family and friends. He was wonderfully unpredictable -- at times a sweet leprechaun and others a wee bit of a curmudgeon, but always sincere in sharing what was on his mind. Our St. Patrick's Day breakfast is an essential start of every parade and a perfect blend of Irish pride and politics. He will be sorely missed. My family and I send our deepest condolences to Mary, the children, and extended family."
His son, Terence, shared a photo of he and Haggerty on Facebook earlier this month. On Thursday, he made it his cover image:
Haggerty oversaw one of the country's most lucrative NCAA basketball pools: It started started as a diversion among drinking buddies, with players vying for less than $1,000, but eventually it topped out at a $1.5 million payout at the end of its 29-year run in 2006.
The renowned contest was featured in national publications and news shows.
The Jody's owner announced the end end of the pool after the IRS expressed an interest in the mega-jackpot, triggering questions.
Haggerty pleaded guilty to federal tax-evasion charges in 2010. He was sentenced to two years' probation.
Arrangements have not yet been announced.