Colman McCarthy: A Life Dedicated to Peace, Journalism and the Unexpected Joy of Golf

Colman McCarthy, the longtime Washington Post columnist and a passionate advocate for peace, died on February 27, 2026, at the age of 87. His life was a remarkable journey, encompassing time as a Trappist monk, a pursuit of professional golf, and decades dedicated to teaching and writing about peace and social justice.

From Monastery to the Newsroom

Born on March 24, 1938, in Glen Head, Latest York, McCarthy initially contemplated a life of religious devotion, spending five years as a Trappist monk in rural Georgia. He overcame a childhood stutter by focusing on writing and composition, which ultimately led him to a career in journalism. After leaving the monastery, he began writing articles about rural poverty in America, often living in his car while pursuing his work.

A Voice for Peace at The Washington Post

McCarthy joined The Washington Post in 1982, where he wrote a syndicated column for nearly 30 years. He became known as “the liberal conscience of The Washington Post,” using his platform to advocate for peace, challenge conventional thinking, and address issues ranging from politics and religion to education and poverty.

The Unexpected Passion: Golf

Beyond his commitment to peace and journalism, McCarthy harbored a lifelong love for golf. He initially pursued a professional golf career, playing college golf at Spring Hill College, a Jesuit school in Mobile, Alabama. He continued to play throughout his life, viewing the game as a source of both pleasure and a metaphor for life’s challenges. He even briefly caddied for Tommy Bolt.

A Teacher of Peace Studies

McCarthy didn’t confine his advocacy to the written word. From 1982 onward, he taught courses on nonviolence and the literature of peace at multiple universities and high schools, including Georgetown University Law Center, American University, and The Catholic University of America. He taught over 7,000 students, emphasizing the importance of taking action against violence in the world.

Legacy and Remembrance

Colman McCarthy’s influence extended beyond his professional accomplishments. He fostered connections with a diverse range of individuals, including Joan Baez, Sargent Shriver, and numerous golf professionals. His son, Jim McCarthy, a public relations executive, reflected on his father’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life. McCarthy spent his final years with his son John and his family in the Dominican Republic, continuing to play golf until his death.

Colman McCarthy’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of pursuing peace, challenging injustice, and finding joy in unexpected places. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists, educators, and advocates for a more just and peaceful world.