James Joseph McConeghy's Obituary
James Joseph McConeghy of Dallas, TX passed away on May 23, 2020. Known as “Mac” to friends, but “Poppy” to all, his 81 years were characterized by service to God and country, and selfless devotion to his family and friends.
Poppy was born in South Fork, PA to Patrick and Margaret McConeghy, the last of 8 children. His childhood was spent watching his father, brothers and extended family work in the coal mines of Western PA. This strong Irish work ethic and get it done attitude molded a legacy that was the centerpiece of his life. Poppy was no-nonsense - tough as nails - and these characteristics also emerged in various sports. To the annoyance of his parents, he found solace in football, battling it out on the interior defensive line week by week, leading his team to a state championship in 1956. He later took up boxing, competing in the famous Texas “Golden Gloves”, winning numerous bouts while getting a few black eyes in the process.
Prior to graduating high school, Poppy was called to military life. He enlisted in the Air Force, which quickly took him to Sweetwater, Texas. Here he began working as an air traffic controller, as well as finishing high school in Sweetwater. It was in this west Texas town that he met the beautiful, yet quiet and studious, Eula Vetura (Vee) Brady, with whom he shared a wonderful marriage of 38 years.
Mac and Vee’s military adventures over 20+ years would take them to bases in Canada, Washington, California, Nebraska, Hawaii and Alabama. Technically minded, Mac’s military career began to take off in areas of IT/Database development, working on military computers that were as big as a house at the time. They loved the community that military life provided, enjoying $5 rounds of golf together on base courses and socializing with friends. Upon deciding to start a family, it’s no wonder that adopting two kids was in the cards. First, James, while stationed in Washington state, followed a few years later by Tricia in southern, CA. The young family enjoyed being stationed in Hawaii soon after, and the adventures began. Favorite family outings included camping trips and numerous family get-togethers in West Texas and Western PA.
Prior to his military retirement, Mac completed his computer science degree at Troy State University in Alabama. Upon retirement, the family moved to Duncanville, TX where Mac began his post-military career at Chilton, Army Airforce Exchange, and for 20+ years at Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Texas.
One of the joys of Mac and Vee’s later life was that of raising their grandson, Reese, which forever changed “Mac” to “Poppy.” Upon Vee’s death in 1996, Poppy’s sole mission was to provide for 6-year-old Reese in every way. This relationship quickly became a grandfather/father/ best friendship that lasted another 24 years. Poppy and Reese were inseparable. When Poppy began experiencing some heart issues in early 2000, he always said “I just want to make it to watch Reese graduate high school.” In pure Poppy-spirit, he made it an additional 12 years, and watched his two other grandchildren, Elizabeth and Maggie, walk the stage as well!
The last 14 months of his life, Poppy primarily lived with his daughter Tricia and her husband Doug. This time provided an opportunity for his family to “pay back” Poppy for the years of selfless devotion he provided one and all. What they encountered instead was an even deeper respect, love and admiration for Poppy. He was kind, generous, honest and fair – with a welcoming smile for all. He gave until the very end, sharing his wisdom and wit as he grew old gracefully and honorably.
Poppy was predeceased by his parents, eight siblings and his faithful wife, Vee. He is survived by his son James and wife Helen, his daughter Tricia and husband Doug, his grand-daughters Elizabeth and Maggie and his best friend and grandson, Reese.
He also leaves extended family, his pals Mr. Rich and Alice and many other friends who cherish his memory.
A private family burial will take place on Saturday, May 30th, where Poppy will be laid to rest next to Vee.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to the Neal McCoy East Texas Angel Network (https://easttexasangelnetwork.com), benefitting families in East Texas whose child may be suffering from a serious or life-threatening disease. Poppy befriended Neal last year on a Country Cruise, visited with him at numerous follow up concerts and loved the song “No Doubt About It.”
A life well lived, Poppy – No Doubt About It.
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