Albert Edward McCormick Sr.

Albert E. McCormick Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather "Pa", uncle, musician, and veteran of the US Army, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, in Myrtle Beach, SC, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 78 years old. Albert (Al) was born on December 2, 1947, in New York, NY to Anna M. and Hugh B. McCormick. He and his older brother, Hugh, grew up in Boonton, NJ. Al's musical talent was discovered at the age of 4, when his mother found him playing the theme song from the TV show "Ding Dong School" on the piano. Music was a central force in his life, which he embraced at both St. Peter's Prep High School and St. Peter's University in Jersey City, NJ. Al served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant and led the Army's marching band. Throughout his professional life, he was a musician, music teacher and entrepreneur of Albert Excavating and Dredging. While Al played 26 musical instruments, his favorites were piano, bass fiddle, flute, saxophone, trombone and vibraphone. As a train enthusiast, he was one of the conductors of the Golden Spike Centennial Limited trip, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad. He loved to tell the story of helping John Wayne on this train, who was joining the last leg to premiere the True Grit movie. Family was the most important part and focus of Al's life. He married the love of his life, Dorothea Joan, on June 7, 1970, and they had 3 children, Colleen, Albert, and Meghan. Their fondest memories include family vacations and holidays, family dinners either at home or dining out, and a home always filled with music, love, and laughter. Albert is lovingly survived by his wife of 56 years, D.J., and their children: Colleen (Scott) and her children Reilly (John), Collin, and Connor; Al (Sara) and their children Albert and Ireland; and Meghan (Anthony) and their children Vincent, Matthew, and Brady. Al's greatest legacy is his family. He was the happiest when he was with them. His memory will live on through the love of his family and his music. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 22nd at 9 am at Goldfinch Funeral Home, 325 Hinson Dr, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the American Diabetes Association. Please sign the online guest book at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com Goldfinch Funeral Home, Carolina Forest Chapel is serving the family.

Tributes

Albert Edward McCormick Sr.

December 2, 1947 - August 12, 2026