Arthur W. McCormack Jr. Obituary

Arthur William McCormack Jr., of Danbury, CT, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, just days before his 91st birthday.

Arthur was predeceased by his parents, Arthur W. McCormack Sr. and Elda McCormack (Mencucci), his beloved sisters JoAnn, Carol, and Shirley, and his former wife, Patricia H. McCormack.

He is survived by his devoted life partner of 22 years, May Vaghi of Bethel, CT; his daughter Kelly Murray and her husband Ryan of Duxbury, MA; his son, Fr. James A. McCormack of Menlo Park, CA; and his cherished grandchildren Reilly, Kasey, and Rowan Murray of Duxbury, MA. He will also be fondly remembered by the extended Vaghi family, who welcomed him as one of their own.

Born and raised in Danbury, CT, Arthur was a proud graduate of the Danbury High School Class of 1952, where he played football and basketball. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Western Connecticut State University and later his master's degree in education from Fairfield University. Arthur served his country with pride as a member of the National Guard from 1952-1955 and the U.S. Army from 1957-1959, where he was stationed in Germany during peacetime.

Arthur dedicated his professional life to education, beginning as an elementary math teacher in Newtown and Ridgefield, CT and later serving as Principal of Goshen Center School in Goshen, CT from 1967-1991. He touched countless lives through his leadership, kindness, and commitment to students.

Beyond his career, Arthur found joy on the golf course at Tunxis Country Club and the ski slopes of Ski Sundown. He also had a lifelong love of cars, especially his 1966 light blue Ford Mustang convertible, which he affectionately named Baby Blue.

A devoted sports fan, Arthur followed many teams with great passion. He was a huge UConn Huskies basketball fan, rooted for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Hartford Whalers, and later proudly became an avid Boston Red Sox fan. He especially enjoyed celebrating every Yankees loss with a broad smile.

Later in life, nothing made him happier than spending time with his grandchildren, cheering them on at their sporting events, and gathering with family — especially around the Thanksgiving table, his favorite holiday. He also adored his grand dogs, Poppy, Ollie and Finley, whom he often spoiled by sneaking them pieces of cheese.

In 2003, Arthur reconnected with his high school and college friend, May, and together they created a beautiful life filled with travel, companionship, and love. They especially treasured trips to Hawaii, Alaska, and their yearly winter visits to Cocoa Beach, FL, where they would spend time with friends and enjoy everything life had to offer.

Arthur will be remembered for his warmth, devotion to family, and love of life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Saint Peter Catholic Church, 104 Main Street, Danbury, CT. Following the Mass, Arthur will be laid to rest nearby at St. Peter Cemetery, 71 Lake Avenue Ext Danbury, CT. All are welcome to attend the Mass and burial.