John McCarthy
1927–2011 (age 84)
Computer scientist
Biography
John McCarthy, born in 1927, was a pioneering mind who shaped the foundations of computer science and artificial intelligence. His dedication to rigorous thought, clarity of expression, and mentorship helped a generation of researchers pursue the dream of machines that could reason, learn, and assist humanity.
After a storied career that spanned academia and innovation, he remained a gentle advocate for thoughtful discourse in computing, always emphasizing the importance of ethical stewardship. He rests at Alta Mesa Memorial Park, remembered as a visionary who lit the way for the field he helped define.