William Mccracken

William J. McCracken, 82, of Longwood, FL, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2019, in the arms of his beloved wife of 53 years.

Bill was born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 5th, 1937, to the late Christopher and Helen McCracken.

As a young man and true hero, Bill’s career began when he chose to serve his country in the 101st airborne division of the army. Bill then became a port authority police officer in the Tri-state area of New York City, until being appointed to FDNY in 1966.

Upon graduation of FDNY probie school, Bill was assigned to Ladder Co. 147 in Brooklyn, New York and was an alumni of The Bravest Football Club. While battling a fire in 1980, Bill suffered a massive heart attack which lead to his retirement.

After moving to Longwood Fl. in 1981, Bill continued to serve his community, and became a volunteer for ‘Meals on Wheels’ for many years, bringing comfort to the elderly. Bill was a member of the Emerald Society as well as the Irish American Cultural Society of Orlando for the past 40 years. As a member of the Irish Cultural Society, Bill, alongside his wife, traveled around the country selling Irish products at various festivals, enjoying their time with family and friends along the way.

Bill was a devoted husband, encouraging and supportive dad, and a joyful and loving Papa to their grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary,his only daughter, Colleen; his sons, Paddy (Kelly) ,Sean (Betsy); and loved deeply by 5 beautiful grandchildren;

Shane, Fiona, Liam, Teagan, and Payton; recently born on July 24th, 2019. Bill is preceded in death by his beloved son, Shamus, who passed away in 1992.

The family will receive friends Monday, July 29, 2019, at Highland Funeral Home in Apopka, from 3-8 pm.

Mass with Christian burial will be Tuesday, July 30, 2019, 9:30 am at Annunciation Catholic Church, 1020 Montgomery Road in Altamonte Springs, Fl. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Apopka.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting for donations to be made to:

MD ANDERSON GLIOBLASTOMA MOONSHOTS PROGRAM..

Directed donation in honor of:

PADRAIC MCCRACKEN

University of TEXAS

P.O.BOX 4486

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77210-4486

Reception to follow:

Paddy and Kelly McCracken’s home

840 Sweetwater Island Circle

Longwood, Fl

Gate #2800