Helen M. McCarthy

Helen Mae McCarthy, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished family member, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, surrounded by love and grace.

Born and raised in Rock Island, Helen graduated from Rock Island High School in 1959. Shortly after, she married her high school sweetheart, Gerald McCarthy, and together they shared an incredible 65 years of marriage, a true testament to love, commitment, and partnership.

Helen dedicated her life to her family, finding joy in her role as a wife, mother, sister, and friend. Her warmth, compassion, and unwavering devotion touched the lives of everyone around her. She loved family gatherings, treasured her time with loved ones, and always placed the happiness of others above her own.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Gerald McCarthy; her sons, Jeffrey McCarthy and his wife Meluzel, and Timmothy McCarthy; her sister, Ida Yano; and several nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces who will carry her memory forward.

Helen's life was defined by love, family, and kindness. While she will be deeply missed, her spirit and the values she instilled will live on in those who were blessed to know her.

Graveside services will be 10:30am Thursday at Greenview Memorial Gardens in East Moline. A celebration of Helen's life will be held at a later date, where friends and family will gather to honor her memory and share the joy she brought into their lives. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Quad Cities Animal Welfare Center.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day- unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear."