Francis J. “Mac” McCarthy
Francis J. “Mac” McCarthy passed away peacefully at home on March 17, 2026 St. Patrick’s Day surrounded by family. He was born April 7, 1941, in Syracuse, New York, to Thomas and Mary (Lutz) McCarthy.
From an early age, Mac developed two lifelong talents: making friends and telling a good story. He graduated from Most Holy Rosary School and was proud to say that many of his closest friends were people he had known since kindergarten.
Mac often shared stories from his younger days such as serving as an altar boy, excelling in Latin, earning the rank of Senior Boy Scout, and working as a lifeguard at Massawepie Scout Camp in the Adirondacks. Many of his stories were told frequently and with enthusiasm, sometimes improving slightly with each retelling.
He attended the State University of New York at Albany, where he was a member of the Alpha Pi Alpha fraternity and earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Science. Mac went on to build a career with Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York, serving as Manager of Networking and Communications in the Health Science Division. His work took him to many places, including California, Japan, and Annapolis, Maryland, and he maintained many friendships from those years throughout his life.
Mac lived life on his own terms. Over the years he lived on his boat, rebuilt cars including a Corvette he was particularly proud of and proved he could fix just about anything. He rarely passed an Irish pub without at least considering a stop, especially if it meant good conversation and a chance to tell a story.
Exceptionally intelligent and deeply knowledgeable, especially when it came to history, Mac not only knew a little about nearly everything he made sure you did too. Whether you asked or not, he was always ready with a fact, a story, or a strong opinion, usually delivered with confidence and just enough charm to keep you listening. He also kept a close eye on politics and was rarely unprepared for a good debate.
After retirement, he spent many happy years in Skaneateles, New York, where he became an advocate for protecting the local watershed, including efforts to move the garbage truck route away from the protected watershed. Many evenings were spent at the Sherwood Inn enjoying good food, good company, and lively conversation. During these years he also traveled around the world with his travel companion, Gail.
Eventually Mac returned to Fairport to be closer to his grandchildren, who quickly became his favorite audience and his greatest joy.
Mac was predeceased by his parents; his Irish twin, Michael McCarthy; and his brother, John McCarthy. He is survived by his children, Matthew McCarthy, Patrick McCarthy, and Molly (Greg) MacLean; his beloved grandchildren, Madeline, Colin, and Jane; his siblings Barbara McCarthy and Dennis (Sherri) McCarthy; his sister-in-law Mary Jane McCarthy and Carla McCarthy and many nieces and nephews.
There will be no services, in keeping with Mac’s wishes. He often said the YMCA saved him many times with exercise, socialization, and a great cup of coffee. In his memory, donations may be made in his name to the YMCA. https://rochesterymca.thankyou4caring.org/page.aspx?pid=298
Fittingly, Mac passed on St. Patrick’s Day just as an Irish storyteller might have hoped. We imagine him now behind the wheel of his Mustang, top down, Willie Nelson playing, arriving at the pearly gates with a good story ready to tell.
7 responses to “McCarthy, Francis J.”
Fran and I first met in September of 1946 as Kindergarteners and graduated together from Most Holy Rosary school in 1959. Fran was always a leader and a faithful friend. In the last few years we met for breakfast when I was visiting relatives in Webster. He called me last Fall to make sure I was “still above ground”. We had an 80 year friendship and no matter how long we went without talking, it only took a moment before we were once again old friends with shared lives when we were young. I am diminished by his passing. I’ll see you on the other side, pal.
What a WONDERFUL tribute to your dad, Molly. You definitely inherited his gift of language and storytelling! It put a smile on my face to read of all his life adventures. Gorgeous picture of him as a young man, and again, as grandpa. Your dad was one of a kind !
Hugs to all,
Phyllis
I am beyond emotional over the passing of my brother in law, Fran. He was a hard headed Irishman who tried to convince you he was right. I met him while dating his brother John who I eventually married. I can still hear the very loud conversations and debates that went on in that house. I always felt sorry for Mary, their Mom, for having to listen to all the boys on Sundays. Much laughter would always prevail when they realized that they all had their own thoughts and no one would ever change theirs. Those were the days! I hope Mike and John are ready for him to begin all those stories again. I miss them all and cherish the memories. RIP Francis and give John a hug from me.
My family lives right across the street from Mac. We’re going to miss him greatly. He always gave a wave and kept an eye for the kids safety on the street. My son thought Mac was the coolest guy with his Mustang, top down, great tunes playing and a pair of shades. Mac was a man of needed words but I’ve always appreciated being his neighbor. Mac you will surely be missed!! May you rest in peace!
I, along with so many of Fran’s colleagues in the medical imaging division of Kodak, are deeply saddened with Fran’s passing. He will be missed….but we will also fondly remember how honored and blessed we were to have worked closely with him. My 20+ years working with Fran were remarkable examples of just how important he showed us all how it is to be trusted, connected, and genuine.
As Fran was Irish, he embodied great character. Fittingly passing on St. Patrick’s Day. He will be missed. God bless!
Fran was one of my brothers life-long best friends. So I met Fran when I was 18! Fran had an exuberance for life!!!
Tall, exceptionally good looking, vibrant, the definite gift of gab. Everyone’s best man at a party. My brother and he remained friends all their lives, and I would call FRAN from time to time too, Just to get his take on things .even though I live out here in sunny, SCOTTSDALE and FRAN back in the cold northeast.
I was deeply saddened to see of his passing yesterday, but he’s up there with my brother now and I’m sure they are holding court in the sky
I am just learning about Fran’s passing. I am so sorry for your family’s loss. I remember being entertained by Fran’s stories, near Nyanza at Tully over the years. He was do passionate and friendly. He will be missed by many. Hugs and prayers to all of you.