John "Mick" McCarthy

John “Mick” McCarthy of Old Lyme, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026 in his home at the age of 85. He was born October 15, 1940 in New London, Connecticut, the son of Jeremiah and Madeline (O’Neill) McCarthy.

Mick is survived by his devoted wife Judith (Shapter) of 62 years; his daughter, Nancy (McCarthy) Sherman, and her two sons Peter and Gregory; his son Robert and wife, Dawn, along with their three children: Jeremy, Allyson, and Danielle; and his son Christopher, and wife Susan, and their two children Erin and Garrett, and his wife Ashlee. Mick was predeceased by his cherished son-in-law, Kevin Sherman; brother Maurice “Bud” McCarthy, sister Madeline “Sis” Barone, and niece Nicolette “Niki” White (Barone).

He will be remembered with love by his nieces and nephews Michael McCarthy, James and Mary Barone, Linda and Dale Leger, and Reginald White.

Mick was a U.S. Army Veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne. He was a member of the Old Lyme Fire Department for 64 years and served in the roles of Captain and Lieutenant in the 1970’s and was Steward for 30 years. Mick was a trusted and familiar presence at the Old Lyme fire stations for many decades, tending to the buildings, the grounds, and supplies with unwavering care. He was instrumental in managing several events for the department, including food at the Memorial Day parade and department picnics, Christmas parties, and other gatherings. He was an inspiration to many members of the Fire Department for his fire fighting and truck driving knowledge and ability

He was called “Uncle Mick” by many and was known throughout the community as a friendly, easy going personality who got along with everyone and could be counted on for a smile and to share the local stories. Prior to his retirement, Mick delivered oil to the Old Lyme and Lyme area for over 45 years, working for Saybrook Oil Company and then Wilcox Energy.

As a lifelong resident, he will be missed by many friends, especially John Seckla, with whom he had countless adventures fishing, crabbing, fighting fires, sharing stories, and working on coolers of Budweiser in their younger years.

“Gramps”, as he was known to his grandchildren, was an ever present spectator at all their sporting events. He was an avid sports fan never failing to catch the UCONN women’s basketball or Red Sox baseball games. He also loved the many dogs throughout his life and in the last few years could often be spotted with his beloved border collie, Beau, at the CTDEEP in Old Lyme. He will be missed at the local coffee spots and the CTDEEP dog walking group where his friendly personality and storytelling were adored in recent years.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on March 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Christ the King Church in Old Lyme. Burial with military honors will follow at Duck River Cemetery and a reception will be held at Christ the King Church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Mick’s honor to the Old Lyme Fire Department, P.O. Box 102, Old Lyme, CT or to an animal organization of your choice.