Claudia McGuire

Claudia Jane McGuire, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the age of 79.

Claudia was born in Hannibal, Missouri, on May 26, 1946, the second of nine children born to Weldon and Evelyn Ross. Claudia’s life was marked by her kindness, faith, and devotion to her family. 

Claudia’s faith was the foundation of her life. Her relationship with Christ guided everything she did, from the way she loved her family to the way she served others. She had a true servant’s heart, always giving, always caring, and always putting others before herself. Whether she was cooking a meal for a family in need, volunteering in her community and church, providing food and clothing for children at Christmas, or simply offering a listening ear, Claudia embodied the compassion and grace of her Savior.

On November 12, 1994, she married the love of her life, Jerry McGuire. Together, they made their home in Greenfield. Side by side, they also shared a ministry close to their hearts, visiting nursing homes where Jerry would sing and Claudia would share the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ with all they met.

Family was at the center of Claudia’s life A devoted mother and grandmother, she rarely missed an opportunity to attend her grandchildren’s birthdays, recitals, graduations, and holiday gatherings. She was also a dedicated wife, caring for Jerry with unfailing love as his health declined and deeply missing him since his passing in 2021.

She spent many years working with the most vulnerable: exceptional needs children, Alzheimer’s patients, and special needs adults, offering care, compassion, and dignity to those she served.

Claudia was a deeply patriotic woman, proud of her country and those who served it. She was especially proud of her son, Darin, who served in the Gulf War and her grandson, Samuel, who served in the United States Marine Corps. She served in several campaigns and was involved in lobbying for bills.

Claudia had a creative and joyful spirit. She began sewing at the age of 10 and became a talented seamstress, making many of her children’s clothes and sewing everything from wedding dresses to suits for others. Her artistry extended far beyond the sewing machine; she was a gifted artist, proficient in painting, sketching, calligraphy, needlepoint, papier-mâché, and many other mediums. Her home and gifts were often adorned with her handmade creations, which her family will treasure for years to come.

She was an avid volunteer, serving as Girl Scout leader, Bible study teacher, active PTA member and in many capacities in her church and community. 

Claudia was preceded in death by her parents, Weldon and Evelyn Ross; her beloved husband, Jerry McGuire; and her brothers, Weldon and Donald Ross. 

She is survived by her six siblings: Doris Latta, Jim Ross, Kenny Ross, Donna Boston, John Ross, and Martha Ross; half-brother, Jack and Karen Ross; her children: Darin and Marcela Allen, Lori and Gary Carter, and Fran and Keith Haluska; her grandchildren: Sebastian Allen, Mariah and Samuel Carter, and Joseph and Hannah Taylor; along with many extended family members.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Greenfield Funeral Chapel. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.  

The family received friends on Wednesday at 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral chapel.  

Online condolences may be shared at www.greenfieldfuneralchapel.com.  

Services were under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.