Dennis "Jake" McGrath

Dennis “Jake” McGrath, known as the “Brake Man,” died on Monday, June 5. He had a knack for fixing anything and everything that needed attention whether a mechanical fix or a personal favor. From his beginning days starting Furrin Auto and later Jake’s Brakes, he was often referred to as “the most honest man in town.” The business legacy that bears his name will be continued by his only son Thomas. Jake will be remembered as a man who operated with virtuous business ethics, lived life with high morals and served others without regard for himself. Jake McGrath was brought into this world on May 20th, 1948 by his parents, Thomas and Alice McGrath and accompanied on the journey of life by his older sister, Diane McGrath. Born and raised in Hialeah, Florida; however, for the past 45 years Jake made a life of family, friendships and business in Tallahassee, Florida. He is survived by his faithful wife of 39 years Nancy Ann McGrath (Adams) and his children, Maggie McGrath Theriot, 36, Thomas Henry McGrath “Jake Junior”, 29, and Michelle Diane McGrath, 28 and grandson Reed Theriot. A life of working on wheels led to the hobby of racing anything that could roll. His unquenchable love for the racetrack and need for speed was unsurpassed. Jake shared this passion with his children, making racing a family affair as he fostered the racing talents of his daughter Maggie and son Thomas. Despite his own youthful racing career, Jake was most proud of being the coach and crew chief to the father-and-son duo of McGrath Motorsports. It was through his commitment and leadership that they conquered two championship titles. As attested to by his magnificent wife Nancy, Jake was not only a supremely loyal friend and caretaker but one of most admirable men to walk the Earth. He will be remembered by his three children as the father of all fathers. He set high standards by being a devoted father, best friend, role model and all around family man. Many will miss Jake’s colorful stories of childhood adventures in the Florida Keys, journeys as a Catholic altar boy, his youthful Central American escapades, fishing for the ever elusive big catch, or rowdy race days at Crowder Pit. Fortunately he shared his noteworthy laugh and dependable friendship with so many in the community; young and old, rich or poor. As a lover of the open water and a dreamer of the sea, Jake can now forever sail beyond the clouds. Join the McGrath family and share your love and memories on Saturday, June 17th at the Moon, 3:00 – 6:00 PM. Come as you are to celebrate the life of Jake. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for genuine acts of kindness with no regard of anything in return. Keep your word, love your family, talk with a stranger, send a thank you card. Tell those you love that they are loved and show it. Todd Wahlquist with Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the McGrath family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Dennis "Jake" McGrath

May 20, 1948 - June 5, 2017