Retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark A. Dennis, Jr. is remembered as a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many.
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of retired McGaw YMCA President/CEO Rev. Mark Andrew Dennis, Jr., a cherished leader, mentor, and friend to many. Mark served as McGaw Y President/CEO from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, visionary leadership, and service to the community.
His tenure at the McGaw Y was defined by his unwavering commitment to expanding community support for the YMCA. Under his leadership, the McGaw YMCA launched MetaMedia, a cutting-edge digital media and maker space for middle school youth.
McGaw YMCA MetaMedia groundbreaking ceremony in 2014. Pictured from left, Mark Dennis, Chuck Lewis, youth members Mikey and Faith, Penny Sebring, Peter Lewis, and former McGaw Y Board Chair Dan Israelite.
Prior to working at the YMCA, Mark worked at The Alford Group, a national consulting firm supporting the nonprofit community, and served as the senior pastor of Second Baptist Church in Evanston. During his tenure at Second Baptist, he collaborated with the community and the YMCA on initiatives such as Project SOAR, Pioneering Healthy Communities, and the Evanston Cradle to Career Initiative. Read full obituary.
“I remember Rev. Dennis as a person of immense generosity and kindness. His gentle demeanor, along with his unwavering commitment to his faith and principles, made him a beloved figure in the community. He was not only a spiritual guide to many but also a mentor who nurtured and encouraged the potential in everyone he encountered, including me. I am forever grateful,” said Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO.
Following his retirement from the Y in 2017, Mark returned to Maryland to spend more time with his children and grandchildren. He continued to support the McGaw YMCA from afar, most recently aiding in the effort to garner support for the Men’s Residence Renovation Project.
As the McGaw YMCA mourns the loss of Rev. Mark A. Dennis, Jr., we also celebrate his life and the enduring mark he left on the hearts and lives of so many in Evanston and beyond. His spirit of progressive action, transformative love, and commitment to community will continue to guide and inspire us.
May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy will forever be cherished here in Evanston and remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved family.
Mark A. Dennis, Jr.
Service Details
The family of Mark Dennis has shared that the Celebration of Life Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Martin Street Church of God. In the coming weeks, there will also be a link to view the service online.
The family has asked that notes of condolences and reflections be shared on the Tribute Wall made available on the obituary webpage: Obituary information for Mark Andrew Dennis, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Morehouse College in memory of Mark A. Dennis, Jr. via the following link, www.giving.morehouse.edu/s/give-now.