Gregory Max McCarty

Gregory Max McCarty was born on December 10, 1963, in Centerville, Iowa, to Richard Max and Pamela McCarty (Briggs).

Greg often spoke fondly of the many summers he spent with his great-grandma Nona. As a young teenager, he moved to the Bussey area, where he enjoyed working on the farm of Boyd and Twila Rankin. He quickly became a beloved member of their family.

He attended Twin Cedars High School, graduating as the president of the Class of 1982. While there, he participated in FFA, football, basketball, and his favorite sport of all—track. During high school, he worked at AGI Grocery in Knoxville.

Greg married Connie Jones, and they later divorced. He became a father at a young age when his first son, Ryan Curtis, was born in 1981. He continued his work at Pamco in Oskaloosa before moving on to Pella Corporation. In 1987, he welcomed his second son, Jared Gregory.

In the fall of 1992, Greg met his lifelong partner and soulmate, Patricia “Trish” Durst, at the Stables Inn. They were united in marriage on September 4, 1993, in Ottumwa, Iowa. To this 31-year union, two children were born: MaKenzie Madison in 1994 and Spencer Christian in 1997.

Greg was proud of his many years of service at Pella Corporation, especially his work on the Construction Crew and the Emergency Brigade. In the late '90s, he chose a new career path and joined Hawkeye Installation, where he remained until 2010. This career led to a newfound expertise in cabinet installation, and his membership of the Carpenter’s Union Local 1260 Iowa City.

He enjoyed watching NASCAR and visited several tracks over the years. He was a longtime fan of Dale Earnhardt and, more recently, rooted for Kyle Larson. His love for John Deere tractors began during his time on Boyd and Twila’s farm. Greg spent many weekends at toy shows, adding to his large collection. His most prized possession was his antique 520 tractor, which he purchased from the Rankins and proudly drove in many Bussey Fourth of July parades.

He loved learning and tackling new projects—both around the house and elsewhere.

Greg generously served his community for 28 years as a member of the Bussey Volunteer Fire Department. He served as the department’s chief for many years and oversaw the completion of the current Fire Station and City Hall. He also secured funding for many of the station’s projects. While on the department, he earned his Firefighter I and II certifications, EMT credentials, and attended Indian Hills Community College to complete his Paramedic certification. He also designed firework displays for the City of Bussey, Eddyville Raceway and other surrounding communities.

He was a devoted supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities—including the T.C. Sabers and Knoxville Panthers. He could often be heard leading the “Give me an ‘S’” cheer and became well-known for his pink bucket hat during the TC boys’ state baseball run and championship.

He was immensely proud of all his children and their accomplishments, and he felt blessed to hold the title of Grandpa (“Papa”).

Greg passed away at home on May 19, 2025, due to complications from pancreatic cancer. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Max McCarty, for whom Greg cared for in his final days; his infant sister, Holly Briggs; and his nephews, Jonathon McCarty and Jordan McCarty.

He is survived by his mother, Pam Briggs; his wife, Trish; and their four children: Ryan McCarty (Ashley), Jared Fritz-McCarty (Chris & Stephan), MaKenzie Burk (Aron), and Spencer McCarty (Courtney). He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Rylyn and Roston McCarty, and Hadlee and Haizlee Burk. Additional survivors include his in-laws, Kenny and Patricia Durst and Ron and Kathy Pulse; his brothers, Jon McCarty (Jody) and Jason Briggs (Caila); as well as many other cherished family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to the family. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many medical professionals who cared for Greg over the past several months. They also wish to thank their extended family and friends for their ongoing love and support.