James Michael McGuire
1936 - 2025
Surrounded by family, James Michael McGuire, 88, of Wilmington, DE and Vero Beach, FL passed away in Winston Salem, NC on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
He was born in Elizabeth, NJ on October 28, 1936 to James Joseph and Caroline Rose (ne Kaspar) McGuire. Jim attended Saint Benedicts Prep in Newark, NJ before studying Chemical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame (Class of 1958) and earning a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering at the Newark College of Engineering in 1961. Jim worked for several companies before joining Mobil Chemical Company in 1967 where he worked until 1986 when Container Corporation of America, a Mobil subsidiary, was acquired by Jefferson Smurfit Corporation. Jim retired from Smurfit in 1997. An avid golfer, Jim spent many hours playing golf in Wilmington, DE and Vero Beach, FL after his retirement. When not on the golf course he enjoyed time with his wife of 60 years, Reasel, and family on the beach in Delaware and Florida.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Reasel Margaret Poh, and sister, Shirley Zekas. He is survived by sister Joan Durning, son James Christopher McGuire (Katherine), daughter Lynn Marie McGuire Raj (Girish), son Matthew John McGuire and grandsons James Steven McGuire, Tristan Dean McGuire and Dylan John McGuire as well as loving nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Clemmons, NC at 11am on Wednesday, May 28 with bereavement reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dementia Society of America (www.dementiasociety.org).
Chris, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Katie. –Priscilla McKay
I’ve only known Jim a short time, however in that time, I don’t believe I’ve ever met a more gentler man, loved his humor, great conversations. Thank you Jim,
You were a blessing in my life.
Lucy ☘️🥲
You were and will always remain my everything. My sun, moon and now the stars. I love you. I miss you. Hope you’re enjoying your best golf swing in the other realms while mom’s swimming in the vast etheric oceans. I will honor you in every Saturnian choice I make on this swirling blue planet. Until we meet again, I’ll take you with me in my heart.
I was so glad to have met Jim one time. I was able to get a sense of the man who raised my wonderful friend. His presence was very memorable. You will be missed, Jim!
I’ve only had the pleasure of knowing James (Jim) McGuire for a short while, but he was a very quiet and pleasurable gentle spirit to care for. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent with him. Jim, you have gained your wings. Now it’s time to rest in God’s hands.
Lynn, Giri & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of “Dad’s” passing, yet – I know he had a wonderful, meaningful, kind and utterly loving celebration with you as you supported his transition.
I can only imagine how special this time was for him and for you. He was so fortunate to have all of his children close to him during this time especially.
What a sweet and jovial, thoughtful person Jim was. Always up for a conversation and a good ribbing, particularly of Josh. I much prefer to be the red-head with loud stories that made him laugh loud.
We miss him and his presence. His care and focus on his family. I love to think that he is finally at the party he’s been planning for Tiny, where they are dancing to an old Blue Eyes tune. Much love and light to you!
Peace and Namaste.
Jim was my client, but felt like an adopted father. He was warm, witty, and hospitable. He always had a zinger in his back pocket and made my job very entertaining. He loved his family and always spoke highly of his children and beloved wife. Thanks for the laughs, Jim. RIP xx