Irene McGuire

Irene Mary Szczepanski McGuire, 99 years of age, of Tom’s River, NJ (formerly from Belleville, NJ) passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on January 13, 2026. 

Irene was born to the late Blanche and John Szczepanski in Newark, NJ and was the younger sister of the late Leona Suminski. She was the beloved wife of the late Gerard McGuire, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage with a life built on love, resilience, and family. Together they raised five children, who were the pride of her life:

Carole McCabe (Joseph), Robert McGuire (Virginia), Kathleen Windsor (Gary), Irene Tallody Chrietzberg (Bill), and Diane Codispoti (David). Irene was the cherished grandmother of eleven grandchildren: Mark McCabe, Kim Kurtzman, Kristen Pfeffer, Jaclyn Ramos, Scott Windsor, Stephen Tallody, Michael Tallody, Lauren Pontier, Jonathan Codispoti, Cathryn Codispoti, and Lynn Wells.

She was also blessed with thirteen great‑grandchildren who brought her endless joy: Kyren McCabe, Matei McCabe, Grace Kurtzman, Caroline Kurtzman, Brynn Pfeffer, Jace Pfeffer, Madison Ramos, Mackenzie Ramos, Christian Tallody, Collin Tallody, Maddie Tallody, Grayson Tallody, and Maelyn Pontier.

Irene lived a long, full life marked by devotion, humor, and a sharp wit that stayed with her through her final days. Those who knew Irene will remember her as kind, funny, and loving, with a spirit that was both gentle and strong. Her memory was impeccable, a gift that allowed her to recall stories, details, and family history with clarity that amazed everyone around her. She remained sharp as a tack, offering wisdom, humor, and warmth to all who visited.

Irene was also a woman of deep faith, carrying her beliefs quietly but steadfastly throughout her life. Her faith grounded her, guided her, and shaped the way she loved her family—with patience, generosity, and an open heart.

Her presence was a steady source of comfort and laughter, and her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured. Her family takes comfort in knowing she lived nearly a century with grace, humor, unwavering love, and a faith that sustained her through every season of life.

There will be a private family viewing followed by a Mass on Thursday, January 15 at 11:00 AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 130 St Maximilian Lane, Tom’s River, NJ. Burial will follow at 1:00 PM at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made in Irene’s name to Hospice or a charity of your choice.

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