Help Honor Sean McGranaghan's Memory

Dear Friends and Family,

My name is Chris McGranaghan, and I am reaching out to you with a heavy heart to announce the passing of my beloved brother, Sean McGranaghan. Sean suddenly passed on December 25, 2024, from a heart attack at the age of 48. Sean was a cherished brother and friend who touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and spirit.

If you knew Sean, you were his family. He played many roles (brother, cousin, friend), but the one I think he would like best is "Leader." Sean worked in the restaurant/bar industry for the majority of his life. He started in the bar industry during college as a bouncer at Finnegan's Wake. After graduating from Newman University, he immersed himself in the bar business, becoming a manager there. He then moved to Pittsburgh to open a new Finnegan's Wake there. Eventually, he returned to Philadelphia and opened his own place (Thumper's East Falls Grill), which stayed open in the East Falls part of Philly for a year. He then did some restaurant consulting before becoming the director of operations for Baxter's in Hollywood, FL, for a couple of years, where he grew their business and opened another location.

Again, he was drawn back to Philadelphia, where he had a stint at Katmandu in Trenton, NJ, as the restaurant manager for a couple of years before joining Chickie's and Pete's. He started as the bar manager at Parx Casino but quickly grew in the company, becoming a restaurant manager at several different locations before moving to their flagship store in South Philly, which he ran during some of Philadelphia's greatest sports periods (2017 Super Bowl) and hosted countless local athletes and sports shows that broadcasted from there. Then, a chance encounter brought him an opportunity to work with Winnie Clowery, who worked with his Uncle John McKenna (Happy Jack) at the Bent Elbow. When Sean interviewed to be a bouncer at Finnegan's Wake, he only got the position because he dropped his uncle's name, which brought everything full circle.

During his time in the industry, Sean helped mold and guide countless people to be successful. He assisted anyone who asked for his advice and helped them reach their goals. He was also an active officer with the Philadelphia chapter of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association. Starting January 1st, he was to become the chapter president.

Personally, what more can I say about my first friend? He was always there for me, whether it was advice, something to lighten my mood, or just to listen. If I needed something, he would do whatever it took to help. He was my only brother.

As we navigate this difficult time, we are seeking assistance to cover the costs of Sean’s funeral services. As I don't think anyone that knows him will be surprised, he didn't have life insurance (how many 48-year-olds do?).

Your support will help us honor Sean’s memory and celebrate his life in a meaningful way. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated and will help us provide a fitting farewell for someone who meant so much to us. Every bit of support counts and will be forever cherished.

Family and friends are invited to attend his memorial gathering on Monday, January 6th, from 10:00am – 12:00 noon at McCafferty Funeral & Cremation Inc., 6711 Frankford Ave. (between Unruh & Knorr sts) There will be a prayer service starting at 12:00 noon. Burial will be held in private by his family.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and compassion during this time. We are grateful for the love and strength that our friends and family have shown. Sean touched the lives of countless people and helped bring joy to the masses. He was everyone's best friend.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Chris McGranaghan

https://mccaffertyfuneralhomes.com/obituary/sean-m-mcgranaghan/

Any funds left over will be donated in Sean's name to the SPCA Philadelphia chapter.