John N. McCarthy's Obituary
John N. McCarthy, 76, of Columbus, Ohio, died June 27, 2026, at the James Cancer Hospital with family at his bedside.
He was a beloved brother, uncle, great-uncle and friend.
John was born Jan. 15, 1950, to Charles and Jane McCarthy, and was a lifelong Columbus resident.
He was a 1968 graduate of Bishop Watterson High School, and attended The Ohio State University where he studied music theory.
John was employed in the Columbus bureau of The Associated Press for 34 years, working his way up from an office assistant to statehouse reporter.
No matter the assignment, John could talk to anyone, employing his trademark wit and often irreverent humor, along with an ability to clarify complex issues.
He had a network of lifelong friends who shared his love of music and baseball, in particular the Cleveland Guardians. Pilgrimages to Opening Day games in Cleveland were an annual tradition.
John was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Charlotte Smucker and Ellen Landells.
He is survived by his sister Sheila Gardner of Gardnerville, Nevada; nieces Sara Smucker of Columbus, Kate Gardner (Craig Johnson) of Portland, Oregon; and great-nephew Theo Johnson of Portland, Oregon.
John was a supporter of Meals-on-Wheels, and the family encourages donations to Life Care Alliance, https://www.lifecarealliance.org/donate/online-donation/, in his memory.
A celebration of John’s life will be held later this summer. Please email [email protected] if you would like to be notified of details.
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