Roger J. McCarthy, Jr

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Roger James McCarthy Jr., 76. Roger was born on January 3, 1948, in Twickenham, England and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and son.

Roger was known for his hardworking nature, humble spirit, and kind heart. He worked as a pipefitter and was deeply respected for the support and dedication he gave to his fellow co-workers. He was also remembered as a workplace prankster with a sharp wit.

Roger enjoyed golfing with his “buddies” at Pakachoag golf course in Auburn and Clearview golf course in Millbury. Over the years, he could often be found spending time at “the office”  local watering holes at the end of the workday. 

Roger is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn Jean (Moore) McCarthy; siblings Eileen (McCarthy) Gosselin and Sean McCarthy; daughters, Lorrie (McCarthy) Healey and Eileen (McCarthy) Cornell; grandchildren Patrick Sabourin, Nicholas Healey and Melissa Sabourin; sons-in-law John Healey and Mark Cornell; nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews.

Roger was the son of Ann Philomena (Stokes) McCarthy born in Killarney, Ireland in 1915 and Roger James McCarthy Sr. born in Killarney, Ireland in 1908. Roger was one of six children. He had a great affinity for his siblings Michael McCarthy of Auburn, Ann (McCarthy) Burkhardt of Boylston, Maureen (McCarthy) Fitman of Worcester, Eileen (McCarthy) Gosselin of Northbridge, and Sean McCarthy of Henderson, NV.

Roger ventured to the United States at the age of two with his mother and his siblings aboard the White Star Line ocean liner the MV Georgic. Roger grew up on Gardner St. and enjoyed the time he spent with childhood friends from the neighborhood in Main South.

Roger followed in the footsteps of his father in the family trade of pipefitting and was a member of the Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union #4. Roger also served in the Navy from 1965-1968 aboard the USS Belmont.

 A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 24th at 1:00 at the Millbury Old Time Inn at 29 Canal St., Millbury, MA. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate his life and to share memories.

In Lieu of flowers please donate to: Vascular Cures an organization that aims to improve the prevention of peripheral vascular disease.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of the UMass ICU for their kindness and compassion.

Roger will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. 

Roger worked quietly and lived simply. His simplicity was his strength. He taught us that true greatness lies not in the loudness of one’s deeds.