Dr. James J McCarthy

S. Dennis – Dr. James Joseph McCarthy, 74, of S. Dennis died peacefully surrounded by family on June 7, 2010. He is survived by his loving wife Janet (Gorman) McCarthy. His brother Rev. William McCarthy and sisters, Mary Anne Skelly; Alice Oliva and Kathleen Dunn. His children, James Joseph McCarthy; Mary Ellen Reis; William John McCarthy and Christopher Michael McCarthy as well as many grandchildren.

He was born in Hartford, CT to William John McCarthy and Alice Elise Cote. He received his B.A. from Fairfield University, Masters from Springfield College and his E.D.D from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

James will be fondly and lovingly remembered for his deep devotion to higher education. He had a successful thirty year career in higher education, beginning as head of the department of Recreation for Lyndon State College. He then advanced to the position of Dean of Students. James was then appointed the position of Executive Vice President of Missouri Western State University; dedicating either years as a leader with a contagious enthusiasm and loving spirit to all he worked with and the students he developed. He was also known for his generous and genuine love and friendship. James is best remembered as a man who was the “voice of the students.” Although he accomplished much, he considered his constant devotion and lasting relationships with his students his proudest and most meaningful accomplishment of all.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 10, 2010 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Doane, Beal & Ames Funeral Home, 729 Rte 134, S. Dennis MA 02660. A Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, June 11, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Church, 5 Barbara St., S. Yarmouth, MA. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, S. Dennis.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that support be sent to the University of Massachusetts Cape Cod Alumni Scholarship Fund, C/O Leo Berard, 146 Water St., Yarmouthport, MA 02675, which continues James spirit to students that demonstrate exceptional academic achievement.