Roger Francis McCarthy

Roger Francis McCarthy, a lifelong Bostonian who later made his home on Cape Cod, passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones. Born in 1941 in Boston, Roger grew up in the Mission Hill neighborhood and later resided in West Roxbury before retiring to Chatham, Massachusetts—a place he came to love deeply.

Roger married Deborah Davis in 1963, beginning a partnership that would anchor a life devoted to family, hard work, and friendship. Early in their marriage, Roger worked days and drove a taxi at night, doing whatever was necessary to support his growing family—an example of the determination and responsibility that defined his life.

Roger’s work ethic showed itself early. As a boy, he hawked newspapers on Boston streets and later worked as a vendor at Fenway Park, experiences that shaped both his love for the city and his lifelong devotion to New England sports, especially the Boston Red Sox. He was also a proud Marine reservist, a commitment that reflected his sense of duty and service.

Roger went on to earn his degree from Suffolk University and built a long and varied career in finance and public service. His professional life included positions at Provident Institution for Savings, Banker Data Processing, Citicorp, Fiserv, and the City of Boston, where he served in the Budget Department under Thomas Menino. Throughout his career, Roger was known for his intelligence, reliability, and his strong belief in fairness—particularly his outspoken support for women’s rights in the workplace.

Outside of work, Roger found joy on the golf course. He was an avid golfer, participating in numerous golf leagues over the years, and was a devoted supporter of the Chatham Men’s Club. Golf, like so much else in his life, was as much about camaraderie as competition.

What defined Roger most, however, was his gift for friendship. He had friends everywhere he went, but his lifelong friendships—formed in grade school and carried through decades—were especially dear to him. These friendships were a source of pride and constancy throughout his life.

Roger was the beloved son of Michael McCarthy and Margaret (Grealish) McCarthy, originally of Ireland. He was the devoted older brother of Annemarie Larch of Warwick RI and her late husband John and Daniel McCarthy and his wife Nancy of Westwood MA. He was a loving father to Kevin Michael McCarthy of Chatham, Kiki McCarthy and her wife Robin Durgin of Weymouth and Kirsten McCarthy of West Roxbury, and a proud grandfather to Kevin Neil, Keith Neil, Kate Neil, and Lilian McCarthy. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In his quieter moments, Roger could often be found sitting on his deck, coffee nearby, reading one of the four newspapers he followed daily—always curious, always engaged with the world around him.

Roger Francis McCarthy will be remembered for his loyalty, work ethic, service, and deep friendships, as well as the love he had for his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Nickerson Funeral Home, located at 87 Crowell Road, Chatham, MA 02633, on December 27, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Roger's memory to the PBS broadcasting company or Caring Hospice of Massachusetts, information below.