Chris McCarty

C. Christopher "Chris" McCarty, 59 of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 after a brief illness.

Born on December 24, 1963 in Boston, MA, Chris was the son of Charles and Margaret Knapp McCarty, III.

He grew up in the Washington, DC area and attended college at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He eventually moved to Palm Beach County, Florida, where he met his wife, Deborah, in 1998. They married in 2004 and lived directly on the ocean, where Deborah could film Chris’s surf sessions from their living room. Career-wise, Chris considered himself a hybrid and worked in various areas of publishing, IT, photography and cybersecurity. After living in Denver for 4 years, they moved to Mt. Pleasant in 2019 to be closer to Chris’ parents, who have lived in Folly Beach for over 20 years. He was currently working remotely as a Cybersecurity expert with a team of professionals who became part of his family - he loved his job.

Chris was a lifelong surfer, surfing the entire East Coast with dolphins and sharks, in hurricanes and during snow flurries. He loved nature, and the ocean was his spiritual sanctuary.

Chris is preceded in death by his dear brother, Paul Joseph McCarty, in 2002.

Chris is survived by his wife of 19 years, Deborah McCarty, brother, Kevin McCarty (Cheri), Charles McCarty, III (Father), Margaret McCarty (Mother), numerous cousins, loyal friends and respected colleagues.

Chris has four beloved nephews: Dylan Gordon, Ryan, Conor and Finn McCarty, whom he taught to surf and watch sci-fi movies. As an uncle, he was the epitome of cool - a mentor, friend, and confidant to his nephews, who adored him beyond measure. Chris had an extraordinary ability to blend intellect with a laid-back charm, making learning from him an enjoyable journey. Whether imparting life lessons or demonstrating the art of catching the perfect wave, his wisdom was as vast as the ocean he loved.

Chris was a beacon of warmth, wisdom, and undeniably cool vibes for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Chris was more than just a family member; he was a soul surfer, riding the waves of life with grace and style. His adventurous spirit and love for the ocean were contagious, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to share the waves with him.

His laughter echoed like waves crashing on the shore, and his stories were like chapters from an epic novel that captivated our hearts. Chris was more than a surfer; he was a well-read philosopher of the sea, teaching us to navigate life's challenges with resilience and a smile.

As we bid farewell to this incredible soul, we find solace in the memories of sunsets shared on sandy shores, the sound of crashing waves that mirrored his spirit, and the enduring love that will forever remain in our hearts. May Chris ride eternal waves in the great ocean beyond, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the enduring coolness that defined his remarkable life.

A Buddhist graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Mt. Pleasant Memorial Gardens at 10:00 am, followed out by a gathering and a paddle-out at the Folly Beach County Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Charleston Tibetan Society, 12 Parkwood Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed and submitted online at mcalister-smith.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation – Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, 843-884-3833.