John Joseph McGrath died peacefully at home on September 30th, 2025, after a brief illness, with his loving wife Anne by his side.
Born on April 28, 1938, in Brooklyn, NY, John never met a stranger, and his love of family and good times will long endure. He lived life well, made the world a better place, and instilled a love of adventure, learning, and family in all those he spent time with throughout his long life. His sense of humor and the joy he found spending time with people were infectious.
John received an undergraduate degree from the University of Dayton, master’s degree in mathematics from Villanova University, and an education specialist degree from Florida Atlantic University. He worked as a math teacher and administrator at several Marianist schools including Charlotte Catholic High School and Chaminade Madonna Preparatory School in Hollywood, FL.
John was a lifelong volunteer and lived to serve others. As a young man he was a Brother in the Marianist community of the Catholic Church. As a father, he was the Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 124 in Hollywood, FL, as well as a soccer and track coach. He spent many hours over the years volunteering for his church, schools, YMCA, Kiwanis, Key Club, Toastmasters, Horses for the Handicapped, Habitat for Humanity, Metropolitan Ministries, Meals on Wheels, the Tampa Orchid Society, and the Hillsborough County Democratic Party.
His generosity of spirit will live on through everyone he touched. Whether staying up late with his children to help them with their math homework or school art project the night before it was due, helping a neighbor trim branches off their tree or lending them a tool from his vast collection, giving a ride to an elderly stranger to the polling station on election day, or driving a friend to the airport for an early morning flight, John was the first to offer a helping hand to family, friends and strangers. He led by example, and his legacy of kindness continues through his children, grandchildren and great grandson.
John was preceded in death by his first wife, Judy (Quigley), two brothers, James (Joan) (Sue) and William (Jan), and two sisters, Joan Foy (Richard) and Mary Beauchamp (Joseph) (Tom).
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Anne and his four children: John Joseph II “Mac” (Janis), Christopher (Lesley), Georgina (Scott Doster) and John Paul (Heather). He adored his 8 grandchildren: John Joseph III “JJ” (Meggan), George, Julia, Maggie, Lia, Ian, Emma and Aisling and his one great-grandchild and namesake John Joseph IV, “Jack”. He seldom smiled brighter than when he saw baby Jack on Facetime.
While he will be missed by those who knew and loved him, John will be with us when we see the bloom of an orchid flower, when we order ice cream with just a little whipped cream on top for dessert, and when we admire a beautiful piece of carved or turned wood. He will forever be remembered as the loving man he was and will always be.
For those wishing to make contributions in honor of John, his favorite charities include:
Southern Poverty Law Center
https://secure.splcenter.org/page/86130/donate/1
Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County, FL
https://habitathillsborough.salsalabs.org/donate/index.html
Metropolitan Ministries
https://give.metromin.org/campaign/717621/donate?c_src=WEBHBMW250901&mwsc=MMI-615-WEBHBMW250901
8 Comments
Lynn (Whittaker) Page
Sincere condolences on your loss
J. Wegmann
I was deeply saddened to learn this morning of Mr. McGrath’s passing. He was one of my math teachers at Chaminade, and that is why I still think of him as Mr. McGrath, not John. I remember his calm patience and the way he treated every question as worth asking. I still carry the lessons he taught me in more ways than math. He sparked a love of curiosity, thinking, and patient persistence. My heartfelt sympathy to Mrs. McGrath and to the entire family.
Anne Mc Grath
Thank you,John.
Chris Barnard
Mr. McGrath taught me math at Chaminade High School in the early 80’s. Mrs. McGrath taught me math as well. I remember both being very kind and good teachers. My prayers go out to the McGrath family.
Anne McGrath
Thank you, Chris.
Alana Halley
Dear Anne and family: My son Harry sent me this earlier today. I was so saddened to hear about John’s passing. Such a coincidence….You and John and Harry and I were both married 47 years when we lost our soulmates. I think of you often and still have that beautiful note you wrote Harry and I while on your cruise to Alaska and about how much we helped you with your dreams and being mentors to you both. You both were our favorite couple. May Jesus wrap his arms around John and hold him near to his heart and all of you as well. I would love to talk with you Anne so please give me a call when you’d like to talk. It seems the number I have for you does not work. Here is my number 850-404-4715. I’ve told my kids about John and they all send their condolences. Hugs, Alana
Albert furman class of 69
he was truly a man of god and had a profound effect on my life
Brian Evans Class of 86
Condolences to Anne and Family. I recall fond memories of math class with John and Ann and interactions with our families at the time.