BARRE- John P Harty Sr, 92, was called home to heaven on August 20, 2017 surrounded by his family and loved ones. John was born on the family farm in Barre, on June 7, 1925. From the womb he wore a veil, a sign of a prophet, which foreshadowed great things to come.

Mr. Harty was a simple, hardworking man, filled with stories. He left school at a young age and begun his first job at fifteen years old peddling ice. When he turned 17 years old, John was in a hunting accident just miles from his home. He dropped his shotgun, and the bullet took half of his left ear. For many years he was deaf, until he was healed at a service and regained his hearing.

In John’s early adult years a passion for racing cars emerged. He and his brother Marty built their very own race car, a 34’ Ford coupe with the number 329. As John grew older he began peddling tools all over New England, and built his business through word of mouth. He was old fashioned, and that is exactly how he ran his family business, “John Harty Tools.”

In 1989, John received a loud firm message from God that instructed him to build a cross 200 ft long 25 ft wide painted with The Ten Commandments in the middle of the field. Followed by creating a message to all that could be seen from 1,000 feet in the air, God’s Wisdom, made with trees and crushed marble. Throughout the years many people have visited his home and he was able to share his love of Jesus and to reconnect people with The Ten Commandments. Weddings, baptisms, healings, and many more memorable events have taken place on the farm. John was always thankful to everyone who donated their time and energy to The Cross. He was a faithful servant and pursued God’s will for his property. “Grandpa John,” humbly lived a beautiful life and glorified God with every moment. John’s purpose was fulfilled, and is to be cherished by many more for generations to come.

John Harty is survived by daughter Noreen Mascroft, son John Harty Jr; 6 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. He was predeceased by brothers Martin Harty & Tom Harty and sisters Mary Kelley and Rita Gionet.

The funeral for John will be held on Sunday, September 10,2017 at 1PM at the The Cross 33 Harty Rd. in Barre. All are invited to gather and visit with the family from 11AM-1PM prior to the service. Pillsbury Funeral Home 96 S.Barre Rd. Barre is directing arrangements.

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