Wayne Patrick "Pat" McGrath

Wayne Patrick "Pat" McGrath I, 88, passed away on July 28, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at the Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville, Illinois, with Rev. Mark Dexter Officiating. Family and friends will celebrate his life at Big Catz BBQ, 221 East Main Street, Knoxville, Illinois following the graveside services. Pat was born on April 26, 1937, in Ferrisburg, Vermont to the late Lucielle Eva Lewis and James Michael McGrath. Those that had the luxury to know Pat, know he was a family man. Staying truly humble in his journey, Pat was and will always be honored as a strong, caring son, brother, uncle, husband, father, great grandfather, great-great grandfather. A man's man in all senses of the word. A role model who is respected for his strong character and integrity. Pat was a provider, a protector, a man of principles. Throughout his life, Pat poured his heart into his work, his family and auto racing. His professional career with Lawn Boy spanned over 25 years and provided his family with opportunities to travel the country. Leaving their home state of Vermont the McGrath family made life amazing in Nebraska, Illinois, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, Mississippi, Ohio. Upon retirement Pat and Carol moved back to Oxford Mississippi where they called home. Pat began his journey by racing stock cars on the East Coast, driving the RU21 when he wasn't quite 21 yet. His enthusiasm for racing led him to become one of the original inspectors for the prestigious Daytona 500, all while continuing to race. It was a remarkable accomplishment that highlighted his commitment to auto racing. Pat never hid his love for racing. This was a love that brought him joy to share with the world. Luckily many across this beautiful nation have been fortunate enough to share that passion, build relationships and became extended family. Pat's family feels immense pride knowing that he was honored as a member of "The Living Legends of Auto Racing", a testament to his passion and dedication to the sport he cherished. Pat also found joy in Micro Sprints, affectionately called "Micro Midgets" by the racing family. His leadership skills shone brightly as he became the President of the National Modified Midget Association (NMMA), guiding this organization for 25 wonderful years. His dedication created a sense of community for many involved in racing across the country. One of the greatest joys in Pat's life was spending time with his grandchildren at the racetracks. He created countless amazing memories with them, and they fondly recall those special moments with their grandpa. Their childhoods were filled with laughter and excitement because of the time they shared at the races. Pat's legacy is one of love, passion, and dedication not only to racing but also to his family. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will always live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him and share in his love for family and the sport of open wheel racing. He is survived by his son, Wayne Patrick McGrath II (Dawn) of Collierville, TN; three daughters, Carmel Hollowell (Barry) of Oxford, MS, Pam Hart (John) of Collierville, TN, and Crystol Burnett of Galesburg, IL; six grandchildren; Beau (Rachael Junk) Burnett, Dennis (Miranda) Prather, Mandie "Sis" (John) Sutor of Illinois, Jordyn (Colton) Deal, Joshua Hart of Tennessee and Emily Hollowell of Mississippi; ten great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-granddaughters; two brothers, Thomas (Peggy) and Larney (Sue) McGrath of Vermont; one sister, Sandra Diette (Maurice) of Vermont; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He is preceded in death by his wife, Carol Lynn McGrath; his parents, Lucielle Eva Lewis and James Michael McGrath; three brothers, Rollin, Larry and Michael McGrath; and two sisters, Gwen McGrath, Kathleen Leeds.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations and memorials in honor of Wayne Patrick McGrath I be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://tinyurl.com/3zhr64wx), and Shriners Hospital in Memphis, TN (www.shrinerschildrens.org). To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Wayne Patrick "Pat", please visit our Tree Store.