Joe Terrell McGuire, age 91, of Crestview, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. Born on January 14, 1934, in Brilliant, Alabama, Joe lived a life rich in service, family, and simple joys.
He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 13 years, with duty stations including the Philippines, Japan, Florida,Alaska, and Boston. After leaving military service, he continued to serve through a fulfilling career in civil service until retirement.
On December 28, 1955, Joe married Catherine “Kittie” Wells. Their love spanned nearly seven decades until Kitty’s passing. He is also preceded in death by their grandson Shawn McGuire and brother-in-law Robert Tillery as well as his parents, Gordon Terrell McGuire and Grace McGuire.
Joe & Kittie settled in Crestview, where they became a beloved local business owner of the Giff’s Sub Shop. Beyond work, Joe was happiest when fishing on calm waters, tending to his vibrant garden, or working in his shop on all kinds of projects —skills rooted in his craftsman’s hands. A lifelong fan of Alabama football—“which we won’t fault him for,” his wit and brutal honestly, made everyone laugh —he also delighted in “piddling” around the yard and taking care of anything that needed fixing.
He is survived by his devoted children and their families:
• Michael Terrell McGuire and wife Glenda “Boot”; their son Michael T. McGuire Jr., his wife Nicole, and their children Emily and Henry.
• Dale McGuire and wife Judy, and stepson Trip.
• Timothy J. McGuire Sr. and wife Kathryn their daughter Aja (Asia), her husband Justin, and grandchildren Jacob and Taylor; their son Timothy “Timmy” McGuire Jr.; and his wife Yoko and their daughters Miko and Mae.
Joe was a generous friend, and the heart of his family. Whether fixing the fence, casting a line, helping others, or cheering on Alabama football, he lived with purpose. His legacy of craftsmanship, kindness, and devotion will endure in all who knew him.
A Memorial Service to honor Joe’s life will be held on Sunday, June 22, 2025 beginning at 3:00 p.m. from The Chapel of Brackney Funeral Service with Minister Mark Dillman officiating. Burial to follow at Old Bethel Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 22, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a veterans’ organization of your choice, celebrating his unwavering dedication to his country and community.
Brackney Funeral Service, Crestview, is entrusted with arrangements
Jerry D. McGuire
June 20, 2025, 5:50 pm
We hauled many little toy truck loads of red dirt from the banks of the road in back of your home, shot so many games of marbles, played games of mumbly peg and threw corn cobs at wasp nest in Papas barn loft on rainy days
Just two kids enjoying life
You will always be remembered
Mike and Barbara monsen
June 22, 2025, 5:13 pm
Our thoughts re with you and your family
Pete McGuire
June 23, 2025, 3:53 am
Joe T.,
We grew up together in Boston (later Brilliant) during the 40’s & 50’s with you being 6 years ahead of me.
I remember my junior year,1956, at Brilliant High School, we were having a night football practice/scrimmage and I was told that I had someone wanting to see me and it turned out to be you and Kitty not long after y’all were married and leaving that night headed for a new Air Force overseas assignment.
After my graduation in 1958, I travelled to Pecos, Texas and started my oilfield career hired by your dad, my uncle Gordon T.
Then our next time together was in 2000’s in Carson County, Texas when I had moved to White Deer and you and Kitty moved from Tye, Texas to Skellytown, Texas (10 miles apart) we had a few close years together before y’all moved back to Alabama.
We were also happy to be able to attend yours and Kitty’s renewal of wedding vows after 50 years.
I happy to have had you as cousin and to have the good times with you and Kitty.
You are with Kitty now, Rest in Peace.