John (Jack) McCawley died peacefully at home at the age of 89. Originally from Carbondale, Pennsylvania, he grew up in a loving Irish family of five. Jack spent his youth working in his family’s Soda Fountain Shop, serving up ice cream sundaes and laughs. He entered the Air Force and served his country honorably during the Korean war. Later, Jack attended the University of Scranton and became an English teacher, serving Maine Endwell middle school for 39 years, as well as being a consummate, girls’ basketball & boys’ baseball coach for many years.
Jack loved teaching his students and dedicated his time to support student life, including being an advisor for student council and chaperoning dances and other activities.
Jack was well known for his gift of gab, which he had even before he got to kiss the Blarney Stone. Remembered for his penchant for being a jokester, he often fooled callers into thinking they had reached a pizza shop or local convenience store.
Jack is predeceased by his parents (Claire and Edmund) and two sisters (Jeanne and Mary), as well as his infant son Kevin, and his beloved dog Casey.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Virginia, his four children, Lynne, Brian, Christopher (Kelly), and Colleen (David). He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Justin, Sean, Meghan, Jonathan, Olivia and Amelia as well as four great grandchildren Luke, Olivia, Mallory and Jack, as well as many cousins.
Jack is also survived by his best friend, colleague and professional painter, Jack Gilroy.
In lieu of flowers, the family would ask for donations in Jack’s honor to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Friends and Family will be gathering for a Memorial Service on 9/24/2022 at 11 AM, in the chapel at Calvary Cemetery, 501 Fairview St, Johnson City, NY 13790. There will be a luncheon directly after the service at Factory by Beer Tree Brew, 511 Reynolds Rd, Johnson City, NY 13790.