Thomas Steven McGuire

We are saddened to announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” Steven Joseph McGuire on November 28, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 73. Born on August 23, 1951, in Newark, New Jersey, Tom lived a quiet but meaningful life, dedicated to his family and personal passions.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Barbara; his children, Rebecca, Derek, and Victoria; his son-in-law, Timothy and nephew, Gary, both of whom he loved like his own sons; his sisters, Josephine and Teresa; his Godmother/Aunt Emma, Aunts Tillie and Prudy; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and various animals that somehow kept ending up in his home. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard “Tom” and Rose; his brother, Andy; his dear Aunt Josie and Uncles Nino, Vinnie, Frank, and Steve. Whom he loved and missed every day.

A Veteran of the Vietnam War, Tom served his country with dedication and honor. He was a company clerk, like “Radar” O’Reilly from MASH. When asked about his service, he could be quoted as saying, “I sure killed a lot of envelopes.” Despite being a mailman, the job wasn’t without risk. Tom flew out to the front lines every day to deliver mail to the troops. He even survived the crash when his helicopter was shot down.

Tom grew up in East Orange, New Jersey, but settled down in Lyndhurst in 1993, where he lived for 22 years. He was retired for many years but previously was a computer programmer, software developer, and a small business owner. In his Aunt Tillie’s words, Tom was always trying to climb higher and higher. With this mindset, Tom started his own trucking company at 55 years old. He owned the company for several years before deciding on a life of leisure in Las Vegas. A genius level intellect, Tom was a member of MENSA, but only until he realized he didn’t need to pay anyone for him to know he was smart. His IQ raised 3 more points that day.

Tom was a poor man’s Midas; he could fix anything he touched. He was also a giant nerd. He could always be found with his head in a book, reading sci-fi or fantasy. He loved World of Warcraft, Dungeons and Dragons, and Tolkien. Tom enjoyed gambling, so long as he was winning. Among his favorite things were Marlboro Menthol gold stripe’s, jazz and funk music, card and dice games, and many Asian cuisines. He had a beautiful singing voice and preferred to sing Sinatra. He enjoyed genealogy, uncovering his and his wife’s ancestries going back centuries in some cases.

Though he valued his privacy, Tom’s house was the hangout house for all his children, their friends, and any stragglers they brought in. He welcomed everyone into his home, for better or worse. Tom’s family and pets were his constant companions, and his presence brought stability and love to their lives. His wisdom, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed.

Tom will be cremated in a private ceremony on December 9th, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. A memorial luncheon will be held in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, on January 8th, 2025, with details shared with close family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tom’s memory to a charity of your choice.