John C. Harrity, Sr.

John "Sonny" Harrity, 89, of Philadelphia died peacefully in his sleep on May 22, 2022.  Sonny, as he was known in the Schuylkill neighborhood of Philadelphia, got his nickname from his mother, Margaret Rogers. His father was John A. Harrity. Sonny attended Southeast Catholic High School, served during the Korean War and had a fruitful career working in the U.S. Naval Shipyard on S. Broad St. in Philadelphia. It was here where he was known as John. He started as a mechanic’s assistant and throughout the decades of working there, his career blossomed. His first big career step was when he moved to the Transportation Department. John spent many years there eventually becoming the General Foreman.  In his last years at the Shipyard, John took on a new role as a Quality Control Instructor. 

John met the love of his life, Nancy, at a graduation party. There began a relationship  that survived his time serving the U.S. Army abroad. Upon returning from service, John, an Irishman, courted Nancy Dominick, an Italian. They married in 1956 and had  three children: Nancy, Joy, and John. He also leaves a legacy of love with his three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. John will be remembered for his willingness to help others, his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic and his faith in God and in the Lord Jesus Christ, his Savior.  

Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Mass 11:00 A.M. Thursday, June 2nd at Stella Maris Church, 2901 S. 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA  19148 where friends may call 10-10:45 A.M. at the church.  Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon, PA  19050.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, 322 8th Avenue Floor #7, New York NY 10001 or a charity of your choice.