Sean F. McCarthy

Sean McCarthy, a well-loved pillar of our community, passed away on April 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 64 years old. 

Sean dedicated his life to serving others and has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. His commitment to serving and protecting Stanfordville was unwavering, especially through his 35 years of involvement at the firehouse, his service on the Stanford Free Library Board of Trustees, and his time on the Town of Stanford Rec Commission when he helped to establish the Youth Soccer Program.  

He graduated from FDR High School in 1978 and Albany College of Pharmacy in 1983. Professionally, Sean was a pharmacist, owning and operating the local pharmacy for many years. Through his dedication to the profession, he touched countless lives, offering comfort and care to those in need. 

He had a knack for bringing laughter into every room he entered and his smile brought joy to all who crossed his path. He was a true friend. 

Outside of his community involvement, Sean found solace in the great outdoors, whether it was skiing out West, Tuesday night golf league at Dogwood Knolls, yearly fishing trips with the guys to Montauk, or working in his garden. He was a voracious reader and could often be found with his nose buried in a book. He loved a good cup of Yirgacheffe coffee and an ice cold Busch Light. 

Though Sean battled cancer with unwavering strength, his spirit remained unbroken. His resilience, humor, and positive attitude inspired all who knew him. The family wishes to extend their thanks and appreciation to the whole care team at Vassar Brothers Medical Center, as well as his health care providers at Hudson Valley Cancer Center, for their care and compassionate treatment. 

Sean leaves behind a legacy of love and generosity. He was a cherished neighbor and a loyal friend. His absence will be deeply felt, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Eileen; his children, Dan and Caitie (Tim); his siblings, Keith (Sharon) and Susan (Chris); and nephew and nieces, Seamus (Erica), Sinead (Sherif), and Sara (Daniel). He is predeceased by his mother, Mary Doris; his father, John “Skip”; and his brother, Kevin. 

Visitation will take place at Peck & Peck Funeral Home, 7749 S. Main Street, Pine Plains, on Saturday April 13 from 11 am-2 pm followed by a gathering at Stanford Fire Company. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Stanford Fire Company, Stanford Free Library, or a charity of your choice.

We believe he is at peace and we ask that you listen to a favorite song and send him a smile.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sean F. McCarthy, please visit our floral store.