John Dooner: McCann Worldgroup Founder Dies
- died of heart failure on December 31, 2025, in jupiter, Florida. He was 77 years old.
- He began his advertising career in 1970 at Gray Advertising, where he worked for 14 years on prominent accounts such as Coca-Cola and Gillette.
- In 1984, Dooner joined McCann, marking the beginning of a long and impactful tenure.
John J. Dooner Jr., McCann Erickson Leader, Dies at 77
Table of Contents
Longtime advertising executive John J. Dooner Jr. died of heart failure on December 31, 2025, in jupiter, Florida. He was 77 years old.
Published January 6, 2026, at 05:06 AM EST
Early Life and Career Beginnings
John J. Dooner Jr. was born in 1948 in New Rochelle, New York. He began his advertising career in 1970 at Gray Advertising, where he worked for 14 years on prominent accounts such as Coca-Cola and Gillette.
Leadership at McCann Erickson
In 1984, Dooner joined McCann, marking the beginning of a long and impactful tenure. He rose through the ranks, becoming president and CEO of McCann Erickson in 1992. Under his leadership,McCann Erickson continued to be a leading force in the advertising industry.
“John is one of the truly unique leaders who shaped and defined the industry we all work in today. Across McCann, we are proud and honored to stand on the platform he built,” said Tyler Turnbull, global CEO of McCann. “All of us will continue to innovate and evolve in service of what is best for our clients and our people-just as John did during his incredible career.”
Civic Engagement and Legacy
Beyond his professional achievements, Dooner dedicated his time to several nonprofit and educational organizations. He served on the boards of United Way Worldwide and his alma mater, St. Thomas University.
Family and Remembrance
John J. Dooner Jr. is survived by his wife, Cynthia Stewart Dooner; daughter, jaclyn simón Ramirez; and grandson, León.