James Raymond (Big Jim) McGuire passed away September 12, 2024 in comfort of his family, at home at his ranch in Chugwater.
James was born August 23, 1936, in Harper’s Ferry, Iowa to parents James Henry McGuire and Marcella Ann (Kernan) Mcguire. He was raised in Wheatland with nine brothers and two sisters. After graduating from Wheatland High School, Jim married LaVerne Dee Blodgett on January 10, 1956, and they traveled the state working as a telephone lineman for Bell Telephone. In 1959 Jim obtained a job with the Chugwater Telephone Company under Fred Cashner. When Jim was a boy his Uncle Pat McGuire and cousin Fred McGuire gave him a saddle because he always wanted to be a cowboy. While at the phone company that dream was put into motion.
Jim and LaVerne had three children; Cheryl Ann, David James and John Vernon. Still working at the phone company and building a ranch with the help of his family Jim was often found at his arena roping, working colts, and just riding with his wife and three kids right by his side. After retiring from the phone company, he put all his efforts into bettering the ranch, and that legacy lives on today. Jim McGuire was a kind-hearted man and was known for helping others. Through the years he helped many young people in the ranching lifestyle he loved so much. You never really knew who might be sitting at the kitchen table to share a meal and learn from Jim’s knowledge of the ranch would.
James is survived by daughter Cheryl Robinson (Allen), and son David McGuire, five grandchildren Milt Mosley, Sarah Mosley, Rusty McGuire and Mark Jacob McGuire. twelve great grandchildren and four great great granndchildren, and family friends Bob Mosley, Evey and Angus He is also survived by sisters Celia Ennis, Mary Norred (Sam), and brothers Martin, Joe (Joann), Charlie, Gene (Debbie), and Willie, along with numerous nieces and nephew.
James was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years LaVerne, son John Vernon, his mother and father and four brothers Frank, Mike, Harry and Eddie.
Private family services were held on September 13th, at the family ranch. Jim is again with his beloved wife and son. There will be a celebration of life for all to attend October 13th at the Community Center in Chugwater. This will be a carry-in event starting at 2:00 p.m.
Condolences may be sent to 155 Happy Hollow Rd., Chugwater, Wyoming, 82210.
