Mary Margaret McCarthy, affectionately known as “Mig,” passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, in The Villages, Florida, at the age of 85. Mig was born on December 9, 1940, in Boston, Massachusetts and the daughter of the late Ida Janice McGinn and Dr. Sylvester McGinn, where she grew up in Newton alongside her brother, Sylvester Jr. who preceded her. Mig’s education began at the Mary A. Burnham School in Northampton, MA, and continued at the University of New Hampshire and Tufts University.
Her professional career in dental hygiene spanned working in Boston and Central Massachusetts. It was in Newton where she met the love of her life, Dr. Roger D. McCarthy, and the two were inseparable for 60 years of marriage. After marriage Mig moved to Clinton, Lancaster and Sandwich, where she raised her children before retiring to The Villages, Florida. Together, they raised two wonderful sons, Brian, (Adhana), and Michael (Doreen). Mig’s joy multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren, Caitlin, Jack, Seamus, Liam, and Lenox. Her love for the open sea was evident by her early tenure as a sailing instructor along with her membership with the Coast Guard Auxiliary where she participated in the New England Marine Mammal Safety Program. Later she was elected Commodore of the Snake Pond Yacht Club in Forestdale.
A proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Mig cherished her heritage and the history of her nation. Her adventurous spirit was well-expressed through her participation in The Villages Mini Cooper Club, where she shared her enthusiasm for iconic cars and Auto Rally’s. Mig’s zest for life was further exemplified by her love for golf Tennis and exercising. She was an avid traveler. She seized every opportunity to visit her children from shores of Guantanamo Bay Cuba to the tunnels of North Korea; and from Alaska to the historical richness of Germany and the vibrant culture of Australia.
As we say farewell to Mig McCarthy, we celebrate a life that was rich in experience, love, and service. Mig’s memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she leaves behind, guiding them like a lighthouse’s beam through the voyage of life.
A Catholic Funeral Mass to be held on Thursday March 5, at 10 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist in Summerfield, Florida. Celebration of life at 12 p.m. at The Village’s Savannah Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cornerstone Hospice in The Villages, FL. [email protected]