Paul Joseph McGrath

With great sadness family announces the death of Paul Joseph McGrath on February 5, 2022, at his home, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Debora, of 30 years, daughters Miranda and Loreena, and granddaughter, Juniper. He was the son of Thomas and Josephine McGrath, born July 22, 1958, the second youngest of eight children, Eve Sweeney (Patrick), Patricia Dick (Tom), Shawn McGrath (Rita), Mark McGrath (Denise), Scott McGrath (Cindy). Sisters Theresa and Marie McGrath preceded him in death. In-laws James and Trudi Baker, brothers-in-law David Baker (Cindy) and Chris Baker (Carol) and many beloved nieces and nephews. Paul grew up and attended schools in the Chicago area. After attending North Park College for a year, he put his pursuit of a college degree on hold to take care of his mother who was battling stomach cancer. He spent months sitting at her bedside, both at home and in the hospital, doing whatever he could to comfort her. After his mother died in 1978, Paul enrolled in the University of Illinois and received his bachelor’s degree. Scott was especially grateful for Paul’s delay in getting his degree because it allowed him to attend the same college as Paul, as growing up they never were in the same school. After moving to Atlanta to live with his brother Shawn, he met and fell in love with Debbie. They started their life together in Chicago, and eventually made Atlanta their home. Paul was a classic rock music lover, and a lifelong fan of the Beatles and Cheap Trick. Paul was technically savvy and patiently kept his family updated on the latest computers and smart phones. For many years, Paul worked as an IT manager. He will be most remembered as a proud and devoted father of his beloved daughters and was delighted to have recently welcomed his granddaughter. Paul passed away from complications of Polycythemia Vera (PCV). In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Paul’s memory to PVC research. https://www.mpnresearchfoundation.org