Robert Dennis McArdle

Robert "Mac" Dennis McArdle, Johnson City, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones, on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

He was born in the Bronx, New York, on November 15, 1945, to the late James F. and Mary Gaffney McArdle. Robert is survived by his daughter, Jannifer Mary Dawson, and son-in-law, David; his granddaughter, Hayley Elyce Hodges and her partner, Da'Monde Cheairs; his granddaughter, Hannah Marie Dawson; his great-grandson, Jett Enzo Cheairs; several nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Carmen Zavala McArdle, and by his siblings James, Christopher, Terrance, and Margaret.

Robert was born prematurely, which led to early vision loss and eventually total blindness in his teenage years. Determined to ensure he lived a full and independent life, his parents enrolled him at the Lavelle School for the Blind in the Bronx. There, Robert learned essential life skills and built the foundation for the hardworking, self-reliant man he became. By his side, you could find one of his most loyal friends and companions, his guide dogs. That independence and accompaniment allowed him to live and get around on his own in New York City for many years.

In 1965, Robert met the love of his life, Carmen, at The Lighthouse, an organization that helped visually impaired individuals find employment. With the help of a sighted friend, Robert learned there was a beautiful young woman nearby. He made his way to her table, intentionally bumping into it, to get her attention. When Carmen asked if he was okay, Robert replied, "Once you're done here, we're going to get a cup of coffee." He was 20, she was 19, and in January 1970, they were married.

A lifelong New York Yankees fan, Robert witnessed 17 World Series championships. In his younger years, he spent summer afternoons on the rooftop of his apartment building, enjoying a Schaefer beer and a Nathan's hot dog, with extra sauerkraut- while listening to games on the radio. Later in life, he followed every game through the YES Network on SiriusXM, rarely missing a pitch. Robert and Carmen also bowled together in a blind bowling league, winning multiple tournaments and forming friendships that became lifelong bonds.

Robert was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and a proud Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus. He worked at Volunteer Blind Industries from 1990 until his retirement in 2019 and returned after Carmen's passing in 2021. The organization closed its doors in March 2025.

Robert had a generous heart and helped others whenever he could. He loved to sing, play the trumpet, play baseball at camp with his best pals, tell stories, and laugh, always wearing a warm smile and making friends wherever he went. Above all else, Robert cherished his family and treasured every moment spent with them.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

The family will receive friends Friday, February 13, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 P.M. in the East Parlor of Appalachian Funeral Home.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at 1:00 P.M. in St. Mary's Catholic Church, 2211 E. Lakeview Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601, with Father Dustin Collins, officiating.

Graveside committal service and Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Johnson City.