John "Jack" T McCarthy

John "Jack" McCarthy, age 82, of Mills River, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday October 12.

Jack was born and raised in Washington DC, graduated from Catholic University and received a master's degree from the University of Maryland. He served in the US Air Force and Reserves eventually retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His 30 plus year career in civilian government service included the State of Maryland, US Postal Service and the National Institutes of Health. Jack spent much of his career working for the US Department of Defense, retiring in 2000 from the Defense Intelligence Agency.

Jack and his wife Diana moved to High Vista in Mills River in 2000, and immediately became involved in the community. He taught business at AB Tech for several years and was active in leadership and other volunteer roles in numerous organizations, including the High Vista Homeowners Association, High Vista Amenity Association, Blue Ridge Literacy Council, and Mission Hospital Discharge Suite. Jack was also an active parishioner of the Basilica of St Lawrence where he sang tenor in the choir each Sunday.

Jack deeply loved his time with his grandchildren, Brendan and Riley McCarthy, who visited each summer and at other times of the year. He also enjoyed his Australian shepherd dogs, spending countless hours training them for agility competitions and taking them to visit patients as part of the Mission Health Pet Therapy Team. Jack is perhaps best remembered as always being there when you needed him, be it with a kind word, sage advice, an open toolbox, or whatever was needed.

Jack is survived by Diana, his wife of 33 years, his son Kevin McCarthy, daughter-in-law Margaret Carpino, grandchildren Brendan and Riley, step-son Richard Polascak, step-grandsons Lloyd and Zackary, former spouse Maureen, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jack was predeceased by sons, Brian and Timothy, and brother Edward.

Family and friends are invited to attend a mass and celebration of life for Jack to be scheduled and announced at a future time.

Jack was devoted to many organizations who served the needs of others. Donations in his name may be made to World Central Kitchen (www.wck.org), international Rescue Committee (www.rescue.org), or Brother Wolf Animal Rescue (www.bwar.org).