John Michael McCarthy was born on June 17^th, 1964, in Boston, MA and passed away peacefully on June 17^th, 2025, on his 61^st birthday with his family and best friend, Paul Karakasis, by his side. He spent most of his life in St. Louis, Missouri, where he built a loving home and a strong community.

John is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Teresa McCarthy, and their son, Liam McCarthy. His two sisters, Maureen (Bob) Gray and Chris McCarthy; godson and nephew, Sean McCarthy; stepbrother Johnny (Erin) McWilliams; mother-in-law Jeanette McCarthy; stepchildren David (Amy) McCoy, Rachael (Brent) Humiston, Ryan McCoy, Kyle (Tanairi) McCoy; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Kay McWilliams and Denis Q. McCarthy; his sisters Kathleen (McCarthy) Anderson and Anne Marie McCarthy; and his father-in-law, Bill McCarthy.

John was the youngest of five children born to Catherine T. McCarthy and Denis Quinlan McCarthy, who both emigrated from Ireland to Boston in the 1940s. At age four, he moved with his mother and stepfather, John C. McWilliams, from Boston to St. Louis.

He was a proud graduate of St. Louis University High School (SLUH) and an Irish singer and guitar player with his band, The Barley Boys. His humor, generosity, and adventurous spirit left an unforgettable mark on everyone he met. He loved a good story, a cold drink, and any excuse to be near the ocean, especially in Mexico.

Stamps on his passport were his way of living a fulfilling life. Possessions meant nothing to him. Experiences, laughter, music, and love were the things he valued most. His laughter was contagious, his advice was honest, and his love for his family was immeasurable.

In lieu of donations or flowers, and in true John fashion, please save up for your next trip to Mexico.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, July 12^th at the Schlafly Taproom in St. Louis from 12 to 3 p.m. All who knew him are welcome to come, raise a glass and share a story.