John F. Garrity

John F. Garrity, 61, peacefully passed away in the comfort of his home after a battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on November 29, 1963, he was the son of John Garrity and Kathleen (Nelson) Garrity.

John was a graduate of West Catholic High School and Philadelphia Community College, where he earned his Associate’s Degree in Electrical Technology. He was employed at the Philadelphia Navy Yard as an electrician since 1989. Throughout his 35-year career, John proudly served as president of Local 3. His work allowed him to travel to various states (California, Hawaii, Washington) and countries (Bahrain, Dubai, Japan). Out of all the places he visited, Hawaii held a special place in his heart.

John enjoyed experiencing different cultures while traveling for work. He cherished photography, live music, and spending quality time with his family when he was home.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Mary Jo (McGowan) Garrity; his children, Kyle, Brian, and Kaitlyn Garrity; his mother-in-law, Anna McGowan; his sister-in-law, Maureen Butler and her husband, Pete; his niece and nephews, Erin, Dylan, and Liam Butler; as well as his Aunt Jeannie, Uncle Stevie, and cousins, Kathy, Colleen and her husband, Teddy.

He will always cherish the unconditional love of his faithful dog, Chloe, who was always by his side.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Wednesday, August 27 from 5:00 – 7:00PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington on Thursday, August 28 at 10:00AM, immediately followed by interment at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John may be made to the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center and Research Institute, c/o ChristianaCare Office of Philanthropy, 4000 Nexus Drive, Suite W3-300, Wilmington, DE 19803 (https://christianacare.org/us/en/care/cancer-care).

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