Joseph Francis "Joe" McCormick, Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Joseph Francis “Joe” McCormick, Jr., 81, of Isle of Palms, South Carolina, who passed away peacefully on October 31st, 2024. Born on January 25, 1943, in Baltimore, MD to Joseph Francis “Mac” and Margaret Sheehan “Peg” McCormick. 

After graduating from Parkersburg Catholic High School in West Virginia , Joe continued his studies at St.Mary’s University in Baltimore, MD. He earned an MA in Education (emphasis Religious and Moral Guidance). He went on to graduate with a Masters in Theology from Mt. St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland and a degree in Philosophy from Resurrection College in Kitchener, Ontario. Joe’s life was defined by his quest for knowledge and deepening of his faith. These academic accomplishments gave Joe great pride and he continued to promote the importance of education throughout his life, helping anyone who needed an extra hand with tuition or extended learning opportunities. 

Joe continued his work for the Catholic Church in many different capacities, but none more important than when he was a religious education teacher in Georgetown, the historic neighborhood in Washington, DC. This job led him to meet the love of his life, Barbara Ann McCormick (Longnecker). Barbara was also a religious education teacher in the same parish. Joe and Barbara were wed in holy matrimony on August 25th, 1973 at the Church of Christ the King in Silver Spring, MD. As he would tell his family and friends until the last days of his life, there would never be a woman like Barbara. He remained faithful and in love with her for the remainder of his life. Sadly, Barbara passed from cancer at age 58. 

Joe and Barbara settled in Columbia, MD where they would raise their two girls: Mary Margaret “Molly” McDow and Ann Sheehan “Annie” Cox. Joe was a proud “girl dad” before it was cool. He supported and loved his girls, and this love was evident with every action he took in life. During their childhood, he showed this love by attending every event the girls had, from practices to games. He also demonstrated his generous spirit at these events. It was often noted that he wouldn’t just cheer for his own daughters, but for those whose parents were unable to make it. Joe was an easy favorite among Molly and Annie’s childhood friends.

While living in Columbia, Joe switched to a career in finance. Joe worked for Lincoln National for almost 50 years. His knowledge and work ethic brought him great success, but it was his natural ability to build authentic relationships and his care for others that distinguished his accomplished career. Many of his clients and colleagues still enjoyed speaking with him post-retirement, and they continued to share the events of their lives together.

After retirement, Joe moved full time to Isle of Palms, SC and embraced life in the Low Country. It is here that he spent his days golfing, visiting with his brothers Tom and Buz, and becoming an expert in the many subjects that fascinated him. Joe studied the universe and the cosmos, history, theology, and all things politics. He was truly a student of life and this was reflected in his ability to hold a conversation on virtually any topic. 

In the final chapter of his life, Joe was blessed with three grandchildren: Bradley, Miles, and Finley. His grandchildren quickly became his greatest pride and joy. "Papa” was generous with his time, taking every opportunity to spend time with them. This was a magical time in his life and a period of true contentment. Nothing made him happier than to share his love of life with the grandkids. He enjoyed watching them grow and learn, teaching them about all of the amazing things in this world and beyond, and of course, sneaking them some candy when mom said no. The memory of these precious bonds will forever stay with family and friends, and are sure to be recalled with fondness as they gather at Joe’s favorite spot at the beach.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara McCormick of Columbia, MD, his parents, Mac and Peg McCormick, of Hopewell, VA, his beloved aunt, Ann Sheehan, of Baltimore, MD, and his older brother, Buz McCormick of Hurricane, WV. He leaves behind his daughters Molly McDow (husband Craig) of Tomball, TX, and Annie Cox (husband Kyle) of Mt Pleasant, SC, his youngest brother and best friend Tom McCormick (wife Linda) of Fripp Island, SC, his grandchildren, Bradley Michael and Miles Joseph McDow of Tomball, TX, and Finley Sheehan Cox of Mt Pleasant, SC. 

A Funeral Service will be held at Stella Maris Catholic Church on Sullivan's Island, SC on November 23rd at 11 am. A reception will immediately follow at the Wild Dunes Links Golf Course Club House on Isle of Palms, SC.

Joe’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the love, support, and prayers they have received during this difficult time.

May Joseph rest in eternal peace, knowing he will be deeply missed and never forgotten.