John E. ‘Jiggs’ McHale
OBITUARY
John E. Jiggs McHale, 91 of Bowie, MD, entered heaven surrounded by family and friends on May 6, 2026. He was born on May 30, 1934, in Scranton, PA, to Thomas (Ike) and Elizabeth (Loftus) McHale.
Jiggs was a devoted family man, educator, and friend with an unwavering Catholic faith. A proud graduate of Holy Rosary and Mansfield Teachers College, he earned his masters from George Washington University and served the Prince Georges County Public School system for 36 years, retiring as a vice principal in 1995.
He never lost touch with his North Scranton crew and cherished his annual reunions at Stirnas. A passionate gardener, his annual tomato harvests were loved by all. In 2024, he was honored as a grand marshal of the Mansfield Parade.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Pat (Minjkives); children, MaryBeth (Glen) Faulkner, Marcy (Buddy) Gaines, John, Thomas P., Megan (Elise), and Maria (Jim) Hennigan; and cherished grandchildren. He was a loving father figure to the late Joe McHales children.
Visitation: Sunday, May 17, 1:004:00 p.m., Beall Funeral Home, Bowie, MD. Mass of Christian Burial: Monday, May 18, 11:00 a.m., Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Bowie, MD.
John E. ‘Jiggs’ McHale
May 6, 2026