James McGrath, a resident of Slidell, LA since 2001, passed away on December 28, 2022. He was born on February 5, 1947 to James Thomas and Elizabeth Mary (Brice) McGrath in Evergreen Park, IL. He graduated from Riley High School in South Bend, IN in 1965. He joined the United States Coast Guard in November 1965 and retired in October 1996 as Special Agent, Master Chief Petty Officer. He was then employed at Proctor & Gamble in Plymouth, IN and transferred to Slidell from where he retired. He long volunteered with animal rescue groups and assisted living facilities.

He married Gwen (Hummel) McGrath on October 13, 1971 and remained married to her until her death in 2020. Also preceding him in death were his parents and his brothers Robert (Maria) McGrath and John (Marlene) McGrath.

He is survived by two sons: Gregory (Janneth) McGrath, of Miami, FL and Gerald (Stephanie) McGrath of Jones, MI. He had one granddaughter, Francesca McGrath, several much-loved step-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers Michael (Paula) McGrath and William (Mary) McGrath, and two sisters Maureen (Edward) Tedrow and Kathleen McGrath.

He will be interred at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Slidell, LA in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations to any animal rescue group of your choice is preferred.