March 28, 2022

Linn County News

Published March 30, 2022

Jerry Lee McGuire, of Fort Scott, Kan., a proud Vietnam War veteran, who never stood still and was always on the go, passed away on March 21, 2022. He was 75 years old.

Jerry was born on Sept. 9, 1946, in Kansas City, Mo., to George and Alice McGuire. He graduated from Northeast High School in Kansas City, Mo., in the class of 1964. He then went on to join the United States Marines, where he proudly served and was the recipient of the Purple Heart Medal. Jerry loved kids, but nothing compared to the love he had for his own two, Brian and Heather. He was a great father, son, brother, uncle, grandfather and loyal friend, who would always help others and was family oriented. For almost 30 dedicated years, Jerry was a truck driver and worked for numerous trucking companies. He worked at the Kauffman Stadium for 15 years.

Over 15 years ago, he received the gift of life and was a heart transplant recipient who lived life to the very fullest. Jerry had the honor of meeting the wife of his heart donor, where she asked to listen to Jerry’s heart.

In his spare time, he enjoyed going to the casino and riding his motorcycle casually. He loved fishing and baseball and was an avid coin collector. If playing catch with Jerry, one would have to watch out for his mean left-handed curve balls! From little bow ties, to pants and animals, Jerry made neat little figures from dollar bills. Jerry will always be remembered for his kindness and always smiling from ear to ear, and he will be sorely missed by many.

He is survived by his children, Brian Lee McGuire and Heather Williams; granddaughter, Alena Wilson; sister, Sarah Gonzales; and many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Alice McGuire. A visitation to honor Jerry was held on Friday, March 25, at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Mo., with a graveside service following at Park Lawn Cemetery in Kansas City, Mo. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com.