James Patrick McGuinness

March 7, 2021
McGuinness, James P. card proof

On Sunday, March 7, 2021, James Patrick McGuinness was called to eternal glory, passing away unexpectedly at the age of 41. James was born on December 21, 1979 in Nashua, NH. He was the precious and loving son of Mary Louise (Buxton) and Shawn Patrick McGuinness, and older brother to Laura Eileen McGuinness. He attended Bishop Guertin High School where he lettered in both football and lacrosse. He continued his studies at the University of New Hampshire, where he majored in business and enjoyed playing lacrosse.  

James was married to Sara (Descoteaux) and was a dedicated and loving father to two fine sons, Aidan Patrick and Kellan James McGuinness. He was the Director of Sales and General Manager for McGuinness Tree Service, a licensed crane operator, and an ISA Certified Arborist. James supported the local community by being an on-call Firefighter & EMT at the Bedford Fire Department.

James grew up in Nashua, where his sense of humor and easy going manner created lasting impressions on all those he met. He loved boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, lifting weights, playing guitar, hiking, skiing, and simply just being in the company of his family and friends. He was a car guy; Camaros and Vipers were his favorites. As a father, son, brother, and friend, James brought joy and humor to all of those who knew him. He was a loving and dedicated family man who found utmost joy in creating memories with his boys that he cherished.

In addition to his immediate family he is survived by his Grandmother Edith McGuinness, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his treasured group of true and devoted friends (“brothers”) who together enjoyed all things Jimmy Buffet, tailgating and grilling.

He was predeceased by his Grandparents Robert & Lorraine Buxton, and James & Agnes McGuinness.

The funeral will be held on Monday, March 15th at Parish of the Resurrection, 449 Broad Street, Nashua, NH. Family and friends are welcome to gather beginning at 10:00am for visitation. The funeral Mass will begin at 11:00am. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed (parishoftheresurrection.org). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to this GoFundMe Page  https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-mcguinness-family in support of James’ family in their time of need. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

 

39 Comments on James Patrick McGuinness

Nicolle said : Guest Report Mar 18, 2021 at 7:49 PM

I remember babysitting James when he was little and he’d always leave the yard and disappear on me. Such a cute little kid you couldn’t get mad at. Next thing you know he’s a dad with two cute kids of his own. I’ll always remember being on the lake and basically “tailgating”all day at the sandbar. I miss you terribly and will miss our weekend movies at the lake, even if they were stupid guy movies. My love to you, Shawn, Lou and to Sara and the boys. James was an amazing cousin and will forever hold a huge place in my heart.

Elizabeth Canavan said : Guest Report Mar 16, 2021 at 10:58 AM

Dear Lou, Shawn. Laura and family, We are truly saddened for your loss of James. He had the best smile and was always so nice when we saw him. We hope your unbelievable loss is eased a tiny bit knowing he is with you parents. With deepest sympathy to all of you and your family. Jim and Betty Canavan

Randee (Stern) Bunin said : Guest Report Mar 15, 2021 at 10:45 PM

I have many fond memories of your family from our Elm Street days and beyond. I am so saddened by this heartbreaking news and send my heartfelt condolences to all of you.

Judy Galligan said : Guest Report Mar 15, 2021 at 3:21 PM

Sara: So sad for you and your family. Prayers are with you. Judy Galligan (Resurrection Prayer Shawl Ministry)

Dan Soucy said : Guest Report Mar 15, 2021 at 3:07 PM

Sincerest sympathy, I’ve only knew Jim for maybe 10 years, he was always ready to help Always pleasant. Ironically, my daughter went To Elm St school and would later see him at the Christmas Concerts for his boys in Bedford. Out heartfelt sorrow to Mary and the family.

Lou Fantozzi 96' said : Guest Report Mar 15, 2021 at 9:30 AM

I am so sorry for your loss and wish your family peace. I fondly remember playing sports with Jim in high school; the positive impact that he had on all of his teammates is unforgettable. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

James Webster said : Guest Report Mar 14, 2021 at 9:58 PM

I remember growing up playing baseball with Jimmy and his dad coaching us. May you rest easy Jim My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Lois Weibel and family said : Guest Report Mar 14, 2021 at 8:54 PM

Mary Lou, Shawn ,Laura and all the family, Words can't express how deeply sorry I was to hear of your loss. My thoughts, prayers and love are with the entire family. Although we are unable to attend tomorrow, our thoughts and prayers will be with you. With love, Lois and family.

John Center said : Guest Report Mar 14, 2021 at 3:51 PM

Shawn and Lou, I just today learned of James’ passing. Please accept my deepest condolences and know that myself and the Center family have you in our thoughts and prayers. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend Monday’s service but will be thinking of you both as well as your entire family. Sincerely, John Center

Carol Finn said : Guest Report Mar 13, 2021 at 11:14 PM

Shawn and Lou, It is difficult to find words of comfort when you have suffered such a shattering loss. I do not have Sheila’s gift for writing, so I will simply remind you that you are surrounded by people who love you. Reach out and hold onto them. When there are no words to describe your grief, think of the silence as a place that holds our prayers for you. You are not alone. Carol

Michael Riley said : Guest Report Mar 13, 2021 at 7:40 PM

I have so many amazing memories of James. My first encounter was him knocking the snot out of me at freshman football practice. He was so amazingly better than everybody else on the team, but eventually it wore off on us because our freshman squad went 0-11 and our senior year we went to the state championship. Off-season, we would go to his house every day after school, eat peanut butter sandwiches and OJ, listen to classic rock and then go lift weights for hours. Those memories are so precious to me, along with those of boating on the lake, playing poker, watching football and driving down to Boston. We would tailgate anything and everything, but one of my favorites was a Stevie Nicks concert. Just me, James and a few thousand girls in long dresses rocking out to "Rhiannon". God, I wish I had done a better job staying in touch with him these past years. God bless you, James. I love you. Thank you for the impact you had on my life. I miss you so much. I hope your family has peace in these difficult times.

Bob and Jane OHearn said : Guest Report Mar 13, 2021 at 12:08 PM

Our memories about James go back as early as first grade and the group of friends that came together. Many of these friendships remain to this day. When we think of these “boys” we often smile. James had a strong bond with these friends. We will cherish these memories in Nashua or at the lake. We laugh about the famous bread truck at high school graduation, complete with seating. James was always in the center of these events. His warm smile and the twinkle in his eyes said it all.

John Lavoie said : Guest Report Mar 13, 2021 at 1:59 AM

Mary Lou and Shawn , it’s been a number of years since we have seen each other. As a St John classmate I’ve felt close to Marry Lou and got to know Shawn through playing sports . As a parent I wish you luck . It will be had to deal with. Let you faith guide you through These times and cherish the memories. Shawn, give Lou a kiss for me until I see you both again: John Lavoie

Loren .Denise ,Jacklyn and Tori Dubois said : Guest Report Mar 13, 2021 at 12:27 AM

Shawn,Lou and Laura , Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of James . Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

J. Scott Hamel said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 8:47 PM

To all of the extended McGuinness and Buxton families, my heartfelt condolences go out to all of you. I am so very for the loss of James and send my deepest sympathies to his beautiful children and all family members and friends. I truly miss and love you all.

Mary Poston said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 6:35 PM

I am so sorry to hear of James passing. I have good memories of him playing baseball with my sons. And Shawn coaching. Happiest family, always smiling. He even took down some trees for us and did a great job. Lou and Shawn, please know you are our prayers. My heart aches for you.

Scott Hunter said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 5:45 PM

On behalf of the Bedford Fire Department, I offer our deepest condolences to the family of Firefighter/EMT James McGuinness. James served his community honorably doing his part as a member of our team. We are proud that he chose to serve with us and share this life of service to others. Peace and Grace, Scott Hunter, Fire Chief, Bedford Fire Department

Diane Zapenas said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 5:20 PM

I am so sorry to hear of James passing. I remember him as such a handsome always smiling and kind person. Our family knew James and his lovely family very well. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time .

Erin Carruth Wilson said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 2:44 PM

James was the best kind of friend to have growing up. He would make us laugh until our stomachs hurt and help people without hesitation. My heart breaks while knowing how lucky I am for our time, friendship and memories. We are praying and sending love to the McGuinness family.

Lisa Landry said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 12:50 PM

Mary Lou- I am so very sorry to hear about your son. I know how precious your family is to you. Sending you prayers and hugs during this very difficult time. May all your dear memories bring you much needed comfort.

Tonya Fry said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 12:17 PM

I am truly at a loss for words and heartbroken by the sudden loss of Jim. Shawn, Mary Lou, Sara and boys, and the extended McGuiness family, you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Edward Auclair said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 10:57 AM

Shawn and Lou and Laura, My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family on hearing about Jim. Although he was never in my class, I remember him as a kind and friendly person. Ed Auclair

Annie Keenan Duvall said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 8:25 AM

My sincerest condolences to James’ sons, wife, parents, family and close friends on this on this devastating loss. James was a memory-maker. It had been a long time but our BG years were priceless and I will never forget the good times and laughs, many with James at the helm. He wore a parrot to graduation (much to the disdain of the administration—ha) and then ended up on the front page of the newspaper the next day. I sincerely hope his boys know what a good person their dad was. May all those who mourn James feel the prayers, strength and love coming your way.

Mike & Sue Rankins said : Guest Report Mar 12, 2021 at 8:01 AM

Shawn, Lou, and Laura- We are so saddened to hear of the loss of James. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during your unbelievable time of grief. As you read through all the condolences there is one common thread: James will always be remembered as a strong, caring, loving person and so full of life.

Frank Tumblin said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 11:39 PM

I am truly at a loss for words. It feels surreal. James was a great guy. I have many many fond memories from riding bikes around the neighborhood to football in the streets waiting for the bus. He was a great guy and will truly be missed by all that knew him. I send my heartfelt condolences.

Brad Zapenas said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 11:36 PM

James is a longtime family friend, who I have fond memories of growing up! I’ll always remember him driving his blue Camaro over and hanging out at our pool in the summer, and watching the Turkey Bowl with his family at Holman Stadium. He was the nicest guy, and will truly be missed by the Nashua community. Sending my Thoughts and Prayers to the entire McGuinness family.

Karyn (Zapenas) Ramey said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 10:03 PM

James will always have a special place in my heart. At age 14, he was my first boyfriend, my first kiss, my first love. I would ride my bike up to Broad St where he would meet me and help me cross over to hang out at his house with his amazing family - Mary Lou, Shawn and Laura. He got to know my family very well too and when my dad passed away in 2017, James was there. I will always have fond memories of James and I pray for his soul to Rest In Peace. My deepest sympathies to his wife, his boys and the entire McGuinness Family.

Chris Barrett said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 9:46 PM

To the McGuinness Family- I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jim. I have great memories of Little League with Coach Shawn and Jim on the team. Running in to you both in the back room at Shaw’s in Derry when you guys had the bread route. I just wanted to say that you all will be in the thoughts and prayers of my entire family.

Aunt Theresa said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 9:20 PM

Heartbroken at losing such a beautiful family man who was so committed to his sons, Kellan & Aidan, whom he adored. Truly a good man in every sense of the word. Love & strength to the boys, Sara, Laura, Lou & Shawn 💔

Faith Gilbride said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 9:13 PM

My prayers are with you all.

Paradise said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 9:02 PM

Shawn, Lou and Laura we are so sorry to hear of your loss of your precious son and brother. I remember James only as a young blond little boy playing outside with the other kids on Bedford Street. Always had a great big smile on his face. We pray for you all during this difficult time. God bless you and his young family. Lisa and Alan Marc & Matt Paradise

Greta Kropp Gilbode said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 8:56 PM

I am terribly sad to hear this news. While Jim and I were not close in high school, I too only share fond memories of him. His personality and sense of humor always had us smiling. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

The Doty Family said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 7:03 PM

Sara, Aidan, and Kellen, We are so very sorry for your devastating loss. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask. We will keep you and Jim in our thoughts and prayers.

David Lavallee said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 6:54 PM

Deepest condolences to the McGuinness family. My heart is with you all. God bless.

John and Cathy Roberts said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 6:54 PM

Jackie and Lou : our deepest sympathies to your Sara and boys in the loss of your son in law. We are sending prayers to you all during this very difficult time ‘

Susan Boyce said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 5:33 PM

Words can’t describe how sorry I am at this loss. My heart aches for your family. Sue Boyce

Paul Parent said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 4:43 PM

Shawn and Lou, I was deeply saddened to learn of Jim’s passing, it was truly an honor to coach Jim, he was one of “the linebackers” you are all In my prayers , Paul parent

Mark Phillps said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 3:34 PM

Shawn and Lou, I am devastated by the passing of Jim. I have nothing but good memories of Jim and it was my honor to have been a small part of his life over the years. Please know that your entire family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Coach Phillips

Linda Brodeur said : Guest Report Mar 11, 2021 at 1:43 PM

On behalf of the entire Bishop Guertin Community, I extend our condolences during this time of unbearable loss. We are simply heartbroken to hear of Jimmy's passing and hope that you all find love and solace in the care and comfort of your family and friends. Be assured of our ongoing thoughts and prayers during the difficult days ahead. With love and sympathy; Linda Brodeur, President BGHS and a former teacher of Jim's.

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