Charles E. and Agnes J. McCarthy Memorial Scholarship Fund

Charles and Agnes McCarthy and their daughter Danielle all were born and raised in Newport, and all graduated from Rogers High School. Now the family is giving back to their alma mater.

Charles and Danielle established this scholarship fund in memory of Agnes after she lost her battle to cancer in 2006. “My Mom didn’t have a lot of opportunities. She wanted me to have them growing up and now, through this scholarship fund, we’ll be giving opportunities for higher education to others,” Danielle Ward explains.

Agnes (Gilman) McCarthy was born in Newport in 1955. She attended Newport public schools, graduating from Rogers in 1973. She then went to work at the US Naval War College in civil service and later at the Newport Naval Hospital where she advanced to the position of professional affairs coordinator with responsibility for the credentialing of naval doctors at Newport Hospital.

Friends and family remember Agnes’ service and generous spirit. Mrs. Ward shares, “Even during her fight with cancer, Agnes showed great love and concern for others until the very end of her life. She was always so strong. She was a source of inspiration.”

Charles “Charlie” McCarthy was born in Newport in 1946. He was a well-known master plumber in the Newport area who not only knew his trade well, but also taught others along the way. He owned and operated the C.E. McCarthy Plumbing & Heating Company for more than 20 years until 1998. He was a graduate of Rogers High School, Class of 1966, and a member of the Plumber’s Association.

Mrs. Ward states, “Charlie is remembered for his tough exterior, but good heart. He showed much courage in the final months of his life battling illness.” After he passed away in August 2008, Danielle renamed this fund to honor both of her parents.

“They were fabulous parents,” Mrs. Ward concludes of the couple she’d like to see remembered “for their character and spirit.” This fund is a fitting tribute for a couple whose names forever will be associated with scholarships for students at their long-ago alma mater.

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