Herbert Cornelius Xavier McMahon

Herbert was the beloved husband of Elizabeth McMahon, née Schreiber. Herbert and Elizabeth first made their home in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, before moving to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, later in Herbert’s career. Following his retirement, Herbert and Elizabeth settled in New Bern, North Carolina, where they lived for 25 years before moving to an assisted living facility in Johns Creek, Georgia. As Elizabeth’s health declined, Herbert devoted himself to caring for her, accompanying her to appointments, doing the grocery shopping, and helping with the many day-to-day needs of their life together. His care and devotion to Elizabeth were a testament to the love they shared throughout their marriage.

Herbert was the son of the late Cornelius McMahon and the late Helen McMahon, née Kearns. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Father Barry McMahon, Jack McMahon, and Robert McMahon.

Herbert proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Following his military service, he continued his education, graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a degree in chemistry. He later earned a master’s degree in business from Seton Hall University.

Herbert enjoyed a long professional career as a chemist, working for Allied Chemical, Air Products, Diamond Shamrock, and Occidental Chemical Corporation.

Throughout his life, Herbert believed in giving back to his community and helping others. He volunteered his time with several organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, and supported a number of charitable organizations through his generous donations. Through his service and generosity, he found meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of others.

Herbert was a devout Catholic whose faith was an important part of his life. His faith and devotion remained a source of strength and guidance throughout his life.

Herbert was preceded in death by his daughter, Maureen Ferguson (née McMahon).

In addition to his wife, Elizabeth, Herbert is survived by his children, Sharon Hernandez, Jim McMahon (Diane), and Kathleen Morrow.

He was a proud grandfather to Kristen Hernandez, John Hernandez, Mark Hernandez, Matt Hernandez, Lauren Rube (née McMahon), Caitlin Miller (née McMahon), Drew Morrow, Jake Morrow, Delaney Morrow, and Ian Ferguson. He is also survived by his great-grandchild, Eloise Rube.

Herbert will be lovingly remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, extended family, and friends.

A funeral mass will be 12:00 pm Thursday October 1, 2026 at Saint Paul Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at 11:15 am prior to the service at Saint Paul Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Saint Paul Catholic Church, 3005 Country Club Road, New Bern, NC 28562.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the McMahon family.