James J. McGrory, age 98, of Knox, passed away at his home at Bass Lake on Saturday, July 18, 2026. He was born in Donegal, Ireland on November 15, 1927 to Henry and Margaret McGrory, both deceased. He had worked for many years for Republic Steel, was an active member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church and the Knights of Columbus having served as Past Grand Knight, and was also a long-time member of the Bass Lake Lions Club. He had a green thumb and loved to garden. He was known for his beautiful flowers, especially roses. He was preceded in death by his wife of many years, Robina (Molloy) McGrory. He is survived by his children, Celine Boers (the late Dale) of Calumet City, IL, Mary Borowy (Thomas) of Hobart, IN , Jim McGrory of Plymouth, IN, and Sheila Martin (Patrick) of Beaverton, OR, and a sister, Mary Sweeney of Donegal, Ireland, 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 7 brothers and sisters.
A funeral mass will take place at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Knox at 10am (CT), with visitation one hour prior to services, on Friday, July 24, 2026.
Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Calumet City, IL, friends and family will gather in front of the cemetery office at 1pm (CT) for the interment services.
M.C. Smith Funeral Home is handling the arrangements
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of James J. McGrory, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
24
Jul
406 E. Washington St.
Knox, IN 46534
Funeral Service
24
Jul
406 E. Washington St.
Knox, IN 46534
Cemetery Details
Location
801 Michigan City Road
Calumet City, IL 60409
