Terry McGuire

Terry McGuire, born October 2, 1958, passed away in Palm Springs, CA at his home on November 15th, 2022. “Moose”, as he was affectionately called, is survived by his wife, Debra McGuire and his son, Travis Anthony McGuire, his mother Wilma McGuire; brothers Brad McGuire (Patty) and Brian McGuire(Catricia) and sister Melissa (Mick) Williams. Terry is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and a number of dear friends. Terry was preceded in death by his loving grandparents Flora and Buell Abney,  and Amos and Margeret McGuire, as well as his father James (Jim) McGuire.

Originally from Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Terry met his soulmate, Debra at a party once she gained the nerve to ask him for a dance. They married November 24, 1984, and they never stopped dancing for almost 38 years. On their last date November 12, 2022, Terry was swaying to the beat at a Bee Gees tribute band concert with his beloved.

Terry was an exceptional athlete who excelled at Sports through high school, going on to play basketball at Wabash Valley College, and recreational softball for many years after.  He loved  being able to participate in the Guns and Hoses charity events and golfing with friends. 

His passion for service and people led him to work at WAVE, a vocational workshop for the mentally challenged, between 1983 and 1997. In tandem, Terry was a volunteer for the fire department for 7 years, before stepping into a full-time position with the department in 1997. He also worked part time as a certified EMT as well as a bookkeeper/owner of his family’s local craft store Ben Franklin. He was also a certified open water diver for search and rescue.  Terry retired from the department in 2021 as a captain. It was his life and his passion to bring service to the community.

Following his retirement, he and Debra moved to Palm Springs in the summer of 2022 to be closer to their son, Travis.

Surrounded by love and warmth, Debra will remain in Palm Springs for the foreseeable future.

Donations can be made in Terry’s memory to the Mt. Carmel Fire Department, 830 N Walnut Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, 62863.

A service in memory of his life will be held after the first of the year.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com        

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Terry’s family.

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