Jerry and Kay McCarthy

Jerry and Kay McCarthy recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

The couple was married on July 17, 1976, at Holy Trinity Church in Struthers.

Their daughters, Colleen Speer, Carrie McCarthy, Christine Saltsman and Molly Finke, hosted a private family dinner at The Chophouse in Warren. The celebration began with family photos at Fellows Riverside Gardens, where the couple had their wedding photographs taken five decades ago. All eight grandchildren, ages 4 to 16, participated in the celebration and surprised their grandparents with a papal blessing from Pope Leo XIV commemorating the special occasion.

The following day, Jerry and Kay were honored alongside 80 other long-married couples during a special vow renewal Mass and reception at St. Columba Cathedral hosted by Bishop David J. Bonnar.

Active members of St. Michael Parish in Canfield for nearly five decades, Jerry and Kay have dedicated countless hours to their church and community. Kay has served as president of the Youngstown Mothers of Twins Club and has been active with the Canfield Welcome Wagon, parish ministries and numerous civic activities, including serving as an election poll worker. Jerry has volunteered with the Saxon Club and Operation Blessing and is a longtime American Red Cross blood donor.

Faith and family remain at the center of their lives. They enjoy spending time with their eight grandchildren, traveling, golfing and pursuing their favorite pastimes together. As longtime scramble partners, Jerry handles the drives while Kay’s chipping and putting provide the finishing touch. Jerry holds a 20-game lead in their ongoing gin competition, although family members note that short putts continue to test his confidence. Kay’s vegetable garden and flowers are another of her favorite pursuits and a source of enjoyment for family and friends.

As they celebrate 50 years of marriage, they are grateful for the many blessings, memories and relationships that have enriched their lives.