Mary Judith McGuire

Mary Judith McGuire, lovingly known to most as "Judy", passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 86. A longtime resident of Lynn Haven, Florida, Judy was born in her grandmother's home in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, on August 9, 1939, to Joseph and Helen Waros.

Judy spent more than 45 years shaping the minds of Bay District Students. Teaching English was her lifelong passion. Her classroom was a place where stories came alive, where students discovered their own voices, and where thousands of young people left believing they were capable of more than they ever imagined. Teaching was not just her career; it was her legacy.

She was a devout Catholic and a proud member of St. Dominic's Catholic Church. At home, Judy could often be found curled up with a book or in the kitchen preparing her famous chicken and dumplings - a dish her family will forever try (and likely fail) to recreate quite as perfectly.

Judy lived life on her own terms. Strong-willed, fiercely independent, and full of grit, she called her own shots right up until the end. Those who knew her best admired her strength, respected her determination, and loved her deeply for both.

She leaves behind her sons, Gene McGuire Jr. (Cindi) and Michael McGuire (Charmane); her grandchildren, Gene McGuire III (Gracie), McKenzie McGuire, Marybeth McGuire (John), and Massey McGuire; and her great-granddaughter, Edith Kathleen McGuire, who brought her unparalleled joy. Judy was also lovingly supported in her final stage of life by two exceptional caregivers, Sharon Larry and Lisa Robbinson, whose compassion and companionship will always be remembered with gratitude.

A funeral service honoring Judy's life will be held at Kent-Forest Lawn on Saturday, November 8th, with Father Michael Nixon officiating. Family will receive friends from 1:00–2:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Mosley High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, supporting students with a passion for teaching - just as she had.

Donations may be mailed to:

Mosley High School Alumni Association

501 Mosley Drive

Lynn Haven, FL 32444

(Please note "In memory of Judy McGuire" on the memo line.)