Francis Patrick McCarron

Francis Patrick “Pat” McCarron, 72, of Marietta, GA, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his wife, children and family members at his home on May 11, 2018. Pat was born in Miami, FL, on August 19, 1945. He was the eldest of seven children, four boys and three girls, born to his parents Francis John and Dorothy Young McCarron. In his early years his family lived in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New Mexico, then returning to Miami where he graduated from Archbishop Curley High School in 1963. Pat was an athletic trainer during high school which led to a scholarship as a trainer at Miami Dade Community College, and later at the University of Florida, where he served as trainer for the football team during the time Gatorade was developed. After graduation from UF he joined the US Army, attended Officers Candidate School and began his military career as an Airborne Ranger Infantry Officer which included two tours in Vietnam. He was decorated with the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal (V), the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal 1st Class, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation and more. Pat served in several command posts and was the Logistician for the 18th Airborne Corps during the US Invasion of Panama leading to the capture of Military Leader Manuel Noriega. He retired with full honors in 1994 and began a second military career as DOD Contractor until retirement in 2013. Pat met and married the love of his life, Diana Williams McCarron, on February 27, 1982. Together they raised three wonderful children: Ian Patrick, Frances Nicole and Andrew James. Following his final duty station at Fort McPherson in Atlanta, the family settled in Marietta, GA, where Pat was very involved with coaching his sons’ athletic teams and supporting his daughter’s ballet performances. In addition to his wife and children, survivors include his siblings: Michael McCarron (Cheryl), Daniel McCarron (Cassie), Kathleen McCarron, Maureen Meeks (Michael), and Erin O’Connell. He was pre-deceased by his brother Timothy A. McCarron. Pat McCarron readily answered the call to serve in his youth. He honorably and passionately served his country, his community, and his family. He was a true and faithful servant through all of his days. A Funeral service will be offered at Saint James Episcopal Church in Marietta on 5/19/2018 at 10:00 AM.

Francis Patrick McCarron

August 19, 1945 - May 11, 2018