Harry James Geraty, 87, of Lexington Park, MD passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at Hospice House surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born April 11, 1928 in Herkimer, New York to the late Edward A., Sr. and Rose M. Geraty.

Harry was a talented athlete and recipient of the Frank J. Basloe trophy and graduated from Herkimer High School in 1946. Two years later he joined the Navy and proudly served his country for twenty-eight years retiring as a Master Chief Petty Officer in 1975.

Early in his career, Harry met his wife, Corinne Therese Galvin while stationed in Norfolk, VA and together they shared 65 glorious years of marriage and raised seven wonderful children. When his military stint was completed, Harry continued his career with the Department of Defense Civil Service and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Emory-Riddle University in 1985.

For over 35 years, Harry was a long-time, active parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, serving his church community in many different ways as a member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Vincent DePaul. He was also an active member of the local NARFE Chapter.

Harry was pre-deceased by his parents, brother, Edward A. Geraty, Jr. of Herkimer, NY, sisters, Rosemary K. and Marilyn J. Geraty of Syracuse, NY and son, Glenn E. Geraty of Starke, FL. In addition to his beloved wife, Harry is also survived, by his children, Diane Carroll (James) of Columbus, OH, David Geraty (Patricia) of Eden Prairie, MN, Paul Geraty (Kelly) of Ellicott City, MD, Mary Ellen McDaniel (Richard) of Chesapeake, VA, Peggy Gugerty (Stephen) of Newark, DE, Maureen Petrino (Michael) of Bel Air, MD, and daughter-in-law, Danita Geraty of Orange Park, FL. He was a proud, fun-loving, playful grandfather to 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, with two more on the way!

Harry's life can be summed up as a life of service, to his country for 43 years traversing the East Coast plus many overseas deployments, to his family in so many ways; coach, driving instructor, Mr. DIY under any/all circumstances, playmate and friend, to his community whether painting the convent, working bingo at Little Flower School, building a playground or working in the food pantry at church. Harry was busy doing for others and serving God as he went about his daily life.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, August 13, 2015 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with prayers at 7:00p.m., at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 22375 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by Monsignor Mike Wilson on Friday, August 14, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Vincent DePaul of IHM, 22375 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653 and Hospice House of St. Mary's, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home in Leonardtown, MD.