James “Jim” F. McCarty, Jr., 87, passed away at MercyOne Des Moines on March 21, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd.) with a rosary at 6:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church (510 E. 1st St.) followed by a graveside service at 12:30 p.m. at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. A lunch reception will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 403, 910 Main St., Van Meter, IA 50261.

Jim was born in Melrose, Iowa on May 12, 1937 to James and Berenice McCarty. He graduated from St Patrick’s Church/School in 1955 and went on to attain his associates degree attending St Ambrose University. He began his career as a member of the Iowa Army National Guard in 1959. He served as a full time member of the Guard until he retired in 1997 as Lieutenant Colonel, specializing in logistics, and was brevet to Colonel upon his retirement.

On April 30, 1960, he married Janet Roberts in Ottumwa, Iowa, sharing their lives together for almost 65 years.

Jim is survived by his wife, Janet; his five children, Diane (Jim) Brown, Carolyn (Chris) Wilson, Mary (Jeff) Cory, James “Jim” McCarty III, and Joe (Lori) McCarty; and his brother, Larry (Cathy) McCarty. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Donald McCarty.

He loved everything to do with family and family gatherings. He was a regular at all his grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s events until his passing. His passions included all things with the National Guard, his regular tractor rides on his antique Farmall, traveling to cattle shows, trips to Florida, volunteering at Iowa Gold Star Military Museum and attending as many high school sporting events as he could.

Jim and Janet have enjoyed countless times and activities with their 14 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Jim’s conviction to his family, faith and country combined with his fun-loving ribbing of friends and family is how he’ll be remembered by many.

Memorials can be made to American Heart Association.