Obituary of David Portalatin

Ret. Sgt. David Portalatin, 68

Retired New York Police Department (NYPD) Sergeant, David Portalatin, went home to be with the Lord on September 2, 2023 in Livingston, New Jersey. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends he touched through his enduring love for Jesus: his most prized possession.

David was born on December 18, 1954 to Jose and Hermina Portalatin in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Born fourth among eight brothers and sisters, David spent his adolescence caring for stray animals, attending church services at John 3:16 Church, and helping his father fix used cars.

After graduating from John Jay High School in 1972, he went on to study at York College, where his deep sense of justice and his commitment to ministry blossomed. David was elected leader of his college Christian club, challenging fellow students to love the Lord and make Him known.

After graduating with a degree in Political Science, David began his career as a Juvenile Justice Counselor, mentoring at-risk youth in New York City. In 1983, he joined the Transit Police Department, which later merged with the NYPD. He spent the next 20 years serving as a good, righteous officer, loving God and protecting the people of New York City. Partway through his career, he was given a special commendation for stopping a series of subway robberies that had gone unsolved. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1987.

During his time in the NYPD, David served as security detail at Ground Zero shortly after the Twin Towers fell. His doctors believe it is there where he developed the complications that led to his passing. After retiring from the Police Department in 2003, he served as Head of Security for The Brooklyn Tabernacle and, subsequently, for the 42nd Street New York Public Library for more than 15 years. A generous and humble leader, he was honored to direct the security team for Billy Graham’s final public Crusade in 2005 in Queens, NY.  

David met the love of his life, Carmen, in the Summer of 1982 while serving as an usher at The Brooklyn Tabernacle. He asked her if she and her daughter, Xiomara, needed seats. His simple act of service led to a 40-year marriage that produced two more children, Bethsaida and David Jr., and countless disciples in the Lord. He served as a Deacon until his passing.

David is predeceased by his Father, Jose, his mother, Hermina, and his beloved brother Reverend Samuel Portalatin. He is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren with one great grandchild on the way as well as six siblings and numerous nieces and nephews. He ministered to his loved ones, other officers, doctors, and nurses until his final breath.

Services will be held at Long Hill Chapel, 525 Shunpike Rd, Chatham, NJ 07928 on Thursday, September 21st, 2023. The Visitation will begin at 5pm followed by a Homegoing Celebration at 6:30pm. Those who wish may attend the Homegoing Celebration virtually by visiting https://livestream.com/aritonvideolive/portalatin