Honoring a Founding Light of Our Mission: Father Jerry McCormick

It is with heartfelt gratitude and deep sorrow that we share the passing of  Father Jerry McCormick, one of the founding members of Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey. His dedication to service, compassion for the most vulnerable, and commitment to the teachings of Christ helped shape the mission and heart of our organization from the very beginning.  

 Born on April 3, 1939, Father Jerry McCormick was ordained to the priesthood in June of 1973 and spent his life in loving service to others. He served as pastor of several parishes in our Diocese, including Our Lady of the Assumption (Pajaro/Watsonville), Holy Cross (Santa Cruz), St. Francis Xavier (Seaside) and St. Angela Merici (Pacific Grove). 

Fr. Jerry also served our Diocese in different administrative roles, including Vicar for Clergy, offering support and guidance to his fellow priests. 

 In 1984, Fr. Jerry helped found Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey and served as an honorary board member, remaining a devoted champion for our mission to serve the most vulnerable with compassion and dignity. He led with heart, extending his care beyond our region. As a leader of Catholic Charities’ early disaster relief efforts, Fr. Jerry spearheaded fundraising and mobilized volunteers to provide both immediate aid and long-term recovery support to Hurricane Katrina survivors in Louisiana.   

 Father Jerry’s legacy runs deep in our community. From his pastoral leadership to his vision for Catholic Charities as a place of hope and healing, he was a guiding light to so many. His belief in the dignity of every person continues to live on the work we do every day—helping the vulnerable, supporting families, walking alongside immigrants, and nurturing communities with compassion and faith. 

We invite all those who would like to honor Father Jerry or have been touched by the mission he helped build to join us in celebrating his life and ministry.   

 Funeral Services will be held at St. Angela Merici Church  

362 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 

 Vigil Service: 

Monday August 4, at 4 pm. 

  Mass of Christian Burial 

Tuesday August 5, at 10:30am 

  As we mourn this profound loss, we also give thanks for the remarkable gift of Father Jerry’s life.   

May his soul rest in peace as we carry his legacy forward in love and service.