Patrick Ray McCarthy

Patrick Ray McCarthy (“Doc”)

December 29, 1945 – January 30, 2026

Patrick Ray McCarthy, lovingly known as “Doc,” passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at the age of 80, following a courageous journey of more than 20 years with dementia.

Patrick was a native Oregonian, born on December 29, 1945. From a young age, he demonstrated leadership and character as an avid Boy Scout, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. During high school, he participated in wrestling, rally squad, and track. He also cherished his time after school appearing on West Coast American Bandstand, where his love of music and dancing flourished. His fellow classmates fondly remembered him as “a really super person” who brought joy and kindness wherever he went.

Patrick was a third-generation veteran. His grandfather, Roy McCarthy, served in World War I, and his father, Raymond McCarthy, served as a CB Seabee in World War II. Following in their footsteps, Patrick joined the United States Navy with the goal of becoming a submariner. When chronic seasickness redirected his path, he became a Hospital Corpsman and was assigned to 3rd Recon Bravo Company with the United States Marine Corps. Patrick’s unit, known as the “Pineapple Marines,” was one of the first groups deployed to Vietnam, where he served honorably from 1964 to 1966 and was trained in special operations forest recon, showing courage, skill, and devotion to his country.

Patrick married Paula McCarthy in 1968 in Metzger, Oregon, and together they had two children, Lisa McCarthy and Shane McCarthy.

Patrick’s life was defined by his unwavering commitment to helping others and saving lives. He devoted 26 years to the fire service from 1969 to 1995, serving with Washington County Fire and Rescue No. 1 as a firefighter, engine man, and later as an engineer and EMT. He took immense pride in his work, including his role in the consolidation of Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, viewing every call as an opportunity to serve and protect his community.

Patrick loved the outdoors and cherished time camping and hunting with his family. In 2002, he married Jordana Padernacht McCarthy, and together they shared a joyful and adventurous life. They met at Home Depot in Portland, Oregon, and later moved to help open the new Home Depot in Bend, Oregon. They enjoyed the beauty of Sunriver through bike riding, skiing, floating on the river, and later moved to the East Coast, settling in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

Their favorite pastime was walking the beaches of Fort Clinch and the surrounding shores of Amelia Island. Patrick and Jordana were blessed with an extraordinary circle of friends, family, and caregivers who became their guardian angels. A special thank you is extended to Christie Pluma and Gina DeAndrade for helping Patrick live in a home filled with love and music. Their compassion and devotion guided Patrick gently home.

Patrick had a lifelong love of music and dancing. Some of his favorite songs were “You Are My Sunshine” and “Amore.” He always had a smile on his face and could light up a room simply by being in it. He was deeply loved by many and will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and joyful spirit.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Donna May (Clapper) McCarthy, and his brother, Steven George McCarthy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jordana McCarthy; his children, Lisa McCarthy and Shane McCarthy; and his former wife, Paula McCarthy. He is also survived by his sisters, Alonda Moody and Tammy Craig; sisters-in-law, Jamie Witkus and Beverly Mattheisen; nieces Shannon McCarthy, Katlyn McCarthy, and Samantha Witkus; and nephews Josh McCarthy, James Witkus, Matthew Padernacht, Jon Moody, and Chad Moody; and his great-nephew, Justin McCarthy.

Patrick’s long journey with dementia was met with grace, courage, and unwavering love from those who walked beside him. Though the disease changed many things, it could never take away the love he shared, the lives he touched, or the legacy of service he leaves behind.

Memorial services with Military Honors will be held at 12:30 Friday, February 27 at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32218.  Those attending should arrive at 12:00 p.m. in the lane 1 staging area.

Following the services at the national cemetery there will be a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. at Callahan Methodist Church, 449648 US-301, Callahan, FL 32011.

In lieu of flowers the family would prefer a donation to:  Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1088 Scholarship Fund, 463688  FL-200, Yulee, FL 32097 or 3rd Recon Battalion.  Information from the family will be available  if interested in donation to Doc Patrick McCarthy’s Marine organization.

He will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.