Denise "Dee" Marie (Graham) McCarthy

Denise “Dee” Marie McCarthy—a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend—passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 56 years old. Born on February 16, 1968, in Chicago, Illinois, Dee was the cherished daughter of Caroline Greuloch Graham and the late William B. Graham. She dedicated her life to helping others, earning a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Dayton in Music Therapy and later a Master’s degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. Her career was a true testament to her compassionate spirit—she spent over 26 years at Genesis Behavioral Health as a music therapist and social worker, later working at Mid-Ohio Behavioral Health as a Site Coordinator. Most recently, she brought her warmth and wisdom to Innovatel, where she provided online mental health assessments. She also found deep fulfillment in an online support group for Colontown, where she served as the administrator for the Book Nook, offering guidance and encouragement to others facing similar battles. 

Dee’s heart was as big as her love for music, community, and adventure. She was an active member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church and The Vineyard Church, pouring her soul into their music programs. She had a way of bringing people together, whether through drum circles, game nights, or simply sharing a home-cooked meal. A Girl Scout leader and an enthusiastic presence at soccer, dance, and Devilette performances, Dee was always her daughters’ biggest cheerleader. She found joy in travel, especially to Siesta Key, and embraced life with open arms and an open heart. She also shared her talents with the Greater Zanesville Singers, Zanesville Community Band, Zanesville Community Theatre, The Renner Theatre, and the Zaney Follies. Whether singing, acting, or supporting others from behind the scenes, she left an unforgettable mark on every stage she graced. 

Above all, Dee was devoted to her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin, whom she married September 4, 1993; and their three daughters, Madelaine (Josh) Murphy, Mercedes “Sadie” (Stephen Scheuerle) McCarthy, and Mia (Brody Altman) McCarthy. She also leaves behind her mother, Caroline Greuloch Graham; three sisters, Jackie (Lisa Williams) Graham, Kelly Graham, and Meg Castillo; and countless aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She is now reunited in peace with her father, William B. Graham; her beloved grandmother, Constance Greuloch; her sister, Candace Stribling; her brother, Jim Graham; and a best friend, Jeff Petty. 

In honor of Dee’s generous and giving spirit, her family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to one of the organizations that meant the world to her:  

   •    Zanesville Community Theatre, 940 Findley Ave., Zanesville, OH 43701  

   •    The Renner Theatre, 148 N. Seventh St., Zanesville, OH 43701   

  •    Pal Town, the non-profit funding for Colontown; www.paltown.org

Though Dee’s time with us feels far too short, her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her. She was a true angel on Earth, and now she shines just as brightly in heaven singing with God’s choir of Angels.

Calling hours will be held 2 to 4 and 6 to 8PM Friday, February 14, 2025, at THE SNOUFFER FUNERAL HOME, 1150 WEST MILITARY ROAD, ZANESVILLE. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30AM Saturday, February 15, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 925 East Main Street, Zanesville, with Father Stephen Ondrey as Celebrant. Burial will take place at Mt. Olive Cemetery.

For those who wish to share memories or condolences, please visit www.snoufferfuneralhome.com, find us on Facebook, or call our locally owned caring staff at 740-450-8000. 

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