Jeffrey “Mac” McCafferty

J. Mac McCafferty, surrounded by family and friends at his home in Swisshelm Park on June 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mac was cared for by his devoted wife of 44-years, Janet McCafferty (Chicko). Proud father to Shannon Villani (Joseph) and Kaitlin McCafferty. Loving Pap to Teige, Teagan, Tenley, Tillie, and Tate Villani, and to Boru and Oisín McCafferty.

Preceded in death by his parents Harry and Alberta (Krolikowski), and brother Jamie.

Loving brother of Kathleen Depasse (Vic), Harry McCafferty (late Marie), and Tommy McCafferty (Karen). Cherished cousin and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

A history teacher at Pittsburgh CAPA for 34-years, Mac made a lasting impact on his students and colleagues beyond the four walls of a classroom. His passion for teaching and learning never ended.

During his career, if Mac wasn’t in the classroom he could be found on the football field. His life’s longest passion went further than being a player at multiple levels, but also as a coach. He loved football more than anything, and could never watch enough of the sport.

If you didn’t know Mac as a teacher or a coach, then he may have fixed you a drink. A lifelong barman, he served at some of Pittsburgh’s most famous bars and pubs. He was known to have a strong pour and a listening ear.

Over the course of his life Mac enjoyed writing. He published one book and wrote several poems for loved ones during times of great strife. His writings will serve as reminders of his innate goodness and love of life.

Mac was heavily involved in the Pittsburgh Irish community. He served as a board member to the Irish Centre of Pittsburgh, a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Years of Remembrance Committee, and Irish American Unity Conference, and an officer for Knights of Equity. Most notable was his participation in the Irish Society for Education & Charity, which sponsors Pittsburgh’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, of which he served as Chairman. Mac was honored as the parade’s Grand Marshal in 2025.

Big Mac was a larger than life man and his many stories will continue to live on through his family and friends, whom he loved tremendously. This includes a great number of individuals, because a stranger he never met. He made everyone better and brighter, and filled every room with his great presence and laughter.

Slán go fóill (Goodbye for now).

Relatives and friends are welcome on Thursday from 5-8 PM and Friday 2-4 & 6-8 PM at the Boron Funeral Home Inc. 1719 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15210. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Basil Church of Blessed Trinity Parish on Saturday at 10:30 AM. Everyone please meet at church.

www.BoronFuneralHome.com