Michael John “Jack” McCarthy of Dedham passed away suddenly on April 12, 2026.
He is survived by his wife, RoseAnn Lantz of Dedham, son Michael of Foxborough, daughter Joan McCarthy-Griffin and husband, Ed, of Amherst, NH, daughter Ellen McCarthy, and fiancé Bob Cook, of Pawtucket, RI, and brother William McCarthy and wife Martha of Andover, granddaughters Johanna Ababon and husband Roderick of Manchester, NH, Kaitlin Griffin and fiancé Matthew L’Heureux, of Rochester, NH, and great-granddaughter Aine Ababon. He was preceded in death by his wife Johanna (nee Cronin) and daughter Mary Ann.
Jack was born Feb. 1, 1934, in Somerville to James and Beatrice McCarthy. He enjoyed a happy childhood with brothers Francis, Charlie, Bobby, and Billy, and sisters Dorothy, Teresa, and Helen. Jack loved to share his fond memories of life in a big Irish family, and days spent playing sandlot ball and selling newspapers with his brothers and dad.
After graduating from Somerville High School, Jack honorably served his country in the United States Navy. While deployed to the Mediterranean, Jack ventured to Rome after the death of Pope Pius XII to visit the late pontiff as he laid in state. Vatican guards ushered Jack and his Catholic crewmates to the front of the visitors’ line, a VIP honor Jack would treasure for the rest of his life.
Shortly after his return from duty, Jack met Joan Cronin, an Irish beauty newly arrived from the Emerald Isle, and he quickly determined that life would be incomplete without her. They married, settled in Dedham, and raised a family in a home filled with love and laughter.
Jack was a proud member of Electricians’ Union Local 103, and he spent decades bringing sparkle and energy to the buildings that light up Boston’s historic skyline. His notable projects included the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Wang Theater, and the Big Dig project.
His later years were spent bowling with the VFW, golfing with the Twilight Golf Men’s League, and special get-togethers with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and brothers.
Jack was a hard-working, devoted and loving family man and will be deeply missed.
Visiting hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High St, Dedham on Friday, April 17 from 8:30-9:30am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Dedham at 10:00am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to Special Olympics of Massachusetts, https://support.specialolympics.org/a/donate-in-your-state?state=ma