Ruth Anita McGuire

Ruth (Anita) McGuire, 98, a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own home, just as she wished, surrounded by her loving family. Though named Ruth, she was lovingly known throughout her life as Anita, the name by which most remember her.

Born on October 21, 1926, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Passaic, NJ, Anita was the eldest of five children born to Alpha and Genevieve (Ruth) Garth. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Rutherford in 1944. Not long after, fate stepped in—John (Jack), newly returned from World War II, was working as a holiday mail carrier when he delivered a letter to her family’s door. That knock began a love story that would last a lifetime. Jack would become the love of her life, and they married on September 4, 1948, at St. Nicholas Church in Passaic. Together they shared 53 years of marriage until Jack’s passing in 2002.

Anita worked as a secretary for PNC Bank (formerly New Jersey Bank) from 1969 to 1983, but her most treasured role was that of mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She raised a family rooted in love and joy. In 1984, she and Jack moved from Clifton to Lanoka Harbor, where they built a beloved home on the lagoon—a place that became the heart of family life, and the home Anita would continue to cherish and live in for the rest of her days. In her later years, she remained strong and mentally sharp—able to live independently in the home she loved.

Anita cherished that home, where her grandchildren spent endless days catching crabs off the dock and playing in the backyard under her watchful and loving eye. It was always alive with holiday magic—Christmas cookie decorating, Easter egg dyeing, and family celebrations. She passed on old childhood songs during long walks around the neighborhood, stepping in rhythm to the beat, always smiling—just one of the many ways she wove joy and connection into the fabric of their memories. Throughout her home, she lovingly displayed photographs, keepsakes, and mementos from the past, including the five medals earned by Jack during his service in World War II—reminders of a chapter she quietly honored and held close throughout her life.

A devoted matriarch, Anita was the heart of every gathering. She never missed a birthday card or phone call, always remembered the small details about those around her, and treated others with such warmth and generosity that even those outside her immediate family often felt like part of it. While she was, above all, a deeply cherished mother and grandmother, she had a unique way of making everyone feel seen, loved, and at home—quietly filling the role of “Grandma” for many who needed one. Her warmth, kindness, and playful spirit were unforgettable—matched only by her sweet tooth and her signature love for a good milkshake, a cozy Hallmark movie, the New York Yankees, shopping, and all things Disney—especially Minnie, her favorite.

Anita lived a life full of heart—one that defied age and overflowed with light. Her smile could brighten the darkest day, her heart knew no limits, and her presence made the world a better place. Her life was a testament to the beauty of kindness, the strength of family, and the joy of simple, everyday moments. She loved to listen to music, especially the Beatles—“Let It Be” serving as a guiding mantra throughout her life. She could still play the piano from memory even in her later years and found great joy in listening to piano and guitar tunes played by her children and grandchildren.

Her same enduring love gave her the strength to carry on after the heartbreaking loss of her son, Michael "Spyder" McGuire—a well-known and cherished radio DJ on Oldies 100 WJRZ. Anita carried his memory with strength and grace, honoring him at every step of her journey.

Anita was also predeceased by her beloved and devoted husband, Jack; her parents, Alpha and Genevieve (Ruth) Garth; her sisters, Joan and Barbara; and her brothers, Al and Robert.

She is survived by her loving children: Thomas J. McGuire (Marilyn) of Lanoka Harbor; John McGuire (his late wife, Maryanne) of Wayne; Jim McGuire of Whiting; and Sharon McAndrew (Brian) of Lanoka Harbor. She is also survived by her 13 cherished grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, who were the joy of her life and a true reflection of the love she poured into her family. These include Tom and Marilyn’s children—Thomas J. McGuire Jr., Anthony McGuire, Kyle McGuire, and Lauren Martin (Connor), along with their daughter, Marielle; John and the late Maryanne’s children— Tanya McGuire and her daughter, Camryn, and Natalie McGuire and her daughters, Karlee and Gianna; Jim’s children—Meggan McGuire (John) and John McGuire (Marisa); and Sharon and Brian’s children—Kevin McAndrew, Sean McAndrew (Lisa) and their daughter, Madelyn, Scott McAndrew (Micaela), Keri McAndrew, and Kelsey McAndrew.

Anita may no longer be with us physically, but her spirit lives on in the lives of all those she touched. Just as her mind remained remarkably sharp until the very end, her love and light are limitless—and will continue to be carried forward and spread by all who were lucky enough to know her.

“And when the broken hearted people living in the world agree, There will be an answer — let it be.” — The Beatles

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