James "Jimmy" McGuire

In Loving Memory of James (Jimmy) McGuire
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, granda, papa, brother, uncle, and friend, James (Jimmy) McGuire, age 77, on May 3, 2025.
Born October 12, 1947, in Glasgow, Scotland, he emigrated to the United State in 1971 in pursuit of new opportunities. Settling first in Kearny, NJ. It was there that he found love and companionship, marrying his wife, Rita, in 1976. The couple later moved to Rahway, NJ, in 1977, where they raised their two children, Ryan and Jamie. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories until Rita's passing in 2006. Jimmy found love again and in 2017 married Cecilia, continuing to embrace life with the same zest and humor that had always defined him.
He arrived in America as a skilled welder but soon discovered his true, albeit unexpected calling as a roofer. Despite his fear of heights, he found a surprising knack for the trade, and over the years, with hard work and perseverance, he owned and operated his own roofing company, which he ran with pride and dedication. In 1989, Jimmy also began working for Continental Airlines, then United Airlines. He truly enjoyed his time at the airlines. This second career gave him the opportunity to travel the world (mostly to watch his beloved Celtic), and make countless new friends, until his well-earned retirement.
While he built a life in America that he was deeply proud of, his Scottish heritage remained at the core of who he was. Jimmy made sure that his children knew the rich history and accomplishments of their heritage. His love for his homeland never wavered, and he wore his Scottish pride on his sleeve, often regaling with tales of his life in Glasgow.
A lifelong football (soccer) fanatic, he lived and breathed the game. He played with enthusiasm, coached with passion, and never missed an opportunity to watch his beloved team, Glasgow Celtic. His allegiance to Celtic was unwavering, a passion that made him a cherished member of the Kearny Celtic Supporters and an executive member of the North American Federation of Celtic Supporters Clubs (NAFCSC). He bled green and white, sharing his love for the sport with all who would listen (whether they wanted to or not).
Jimmy was known for his unmatched humor and gift of storytelling. He had a way with words, spinning tales that captivated and delighted, never shying away from a colorful phrase or ten. Jimmy's stories will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to hear them. He was generous beyond measure, always ready to lend a hand-offering not only the shirt off his back, but his kindness and wisdom to anyone in need.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife, Rita. He is survived by his wife, Cecilia, children Ryan (and his wife, Maggie) and Jamie (and her husband, Gavin), his grandchildren Brodie, Quinn, Evan, Norielys, Mariah, Aliahnna, & TJ, his sister Jean, brother Paul, and many friends and family who will forever cherish his memory.
A celebration of Jimmy's life will take place on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 3:00 - 7:00 pm at the Lehrer Gibilisco Funeral Home located at 275 West Milton Avenue in Rahway, NJ.
A live stream link will be posted here on Friday at 3:00 pm. https://youtube.com/live/kfHSCAdPlJE?feature=share
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to:
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Click Here to Donate to St. Jude's
or to the Kano Foundation Click Here to Donate to Kano Foundation
His absence leaves a profound void, but his legacy remains. Jimmy's spirit will live on through the stories he told, the laughter he shared, and the legacy of love he leaves behind. He will always be remembered as a proud Scotsman, a devoted family man, and a true Celt.
Rest easy, until we meet again. Hail Hail, You'll Never Walk Alone.