Leesburg's John 'Papa John' McCrary, a true American hero, dies at 95
John "Papa John" McCrary, a beloved three-time war veteran and a cherished member of the community, peacefully passed away on Monday (Nov. 6, 2023) surrounded by friends and family at the age of 95. His life was marked by extraordinary service to his country and an unwavering commitment to spreading joy and inspiration within his community.
Born in 1928 in Canton, Georgia, McCrary's began life under challenging circumstances. His father passed away when he was just 8 years old, and that set him on a rough path that would test his resilience and faith. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy.
McCrary's military career was nothing short of extraordinary, as he served in three wars: World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His role as a Navy seabee took him to various parts of the world, including the Philippines, Korea, and Guam.
Notably, he became a certified blaster, earning the nickname "Master Blaster," and his duties included working in mobile construction amidst continued hostilities after WWII officially ended.
His journey led him to train with Underwater Demolition Team Six, which later became known as Seal Team Six. He also played a crucial role in testing nuclear bombs, enduring significant radiation exposure that ultimately led to nine cancer surgeries. He served for 27 years before transitioning to the reserve as a command master chief.
McCrary was no stranger to love and loss. He was a father to four children, two stepchildren and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was no stranger to the headlines, either. In 2020, at the age of 92, McCrary took an honor flight in a restored Boeing-Stearman used to train WWII pilots.
His TikTok fame, with former Combat Cafe co-owner Beth Chambers, led to an appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" for a Veterans Day special. His dancing and patriotic performances endeared him to a broader audience, and he continued to inspire with his positivity and enthusiasm.
“Papa John was an American hero, our son's first best friend, and it was a honor to call him family,” Chambers said. “The videos of him talking about his life was 100 percent authentically him. He didn’t know we filmed his stories until they became a hit on TikTok. He openly spoke about his love for God and our country without hesitation.
"If we live each day like Papa John and be adventurous, stand up for what’s right, laugh often, love each other and above all, have faith, we will be blessed with a full life too.”
In October, he celebrated his 95th birthday with a community drive-by parade and a flyover, receiving a special "welcome home" lapel pin as a Vietnam veteran. His presence and infectious spirit touched the hearts of many, leaving a permanent mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Tallahassee report: Support for Israel, Iran sanctions, hurricane aid clear Florida House
“There is nobody in my life that has taught me more life lessons then Papa John has,” Morgan Garofono said. “He gave the best advice, advice that I will remember forever. He had the best jokes, too. Papa John was a legend and I am truly so honored to have spent the last hours and days of his life with him.”
A celebration of life for Master Chief John Charles McCrary will be held at noon Monday, Nov. 13, at Harden-Pauli Funeral home in Eustis, followed with burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Eustis. Harden-Pauli is at 1617 SR 19 North, Eustis; Greenwood Cemetery is at 220 Haselton St., Eustis.
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Veteran 'Papa John' McCrary dies at 95
