Obituary of Mary Alta McGuire

Mary Alta McGuire, 78, the daughter of Thomas Martin and Verna Ethel (Springer) Johnson, was born May 1, 1930 in McCallsburg, Iowa. She attended the McCallsburg Consolidated Schools. She lived in McCallsburg and one year in Colfax, prior to moving to Newton in 1948. On December 21, 1947, Mary was united in marriage with William Andrew "Andy" McGuire in Newton, Iowa. She had devoted her life to her husband, family and friends, and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Newton, long time member of the church choir, taught Sunday School, was the Junior High Youth Advisor and served as a volunteer at Berg Middle School in sewing. Mary was employed by Spurgeon's in Newton, 45 years. Mary died on Thursday evening, November 27, 2008 at the Nelson Manor in Newton. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Andy on February 20, 1994; and her three brothers: Leslie Johnson, Thomas Johnson and Vergil Johnson. Those left to honor Mary's memory include her daughter and son-in-law, Crystal and Steven Failor of Newton; her three grandchildren: Cynthia (JR) Cunningham of Newton, Tanya (Craig) Lofquest of Olatha, Kansas and AJ (Melia) Failor of Newton; six great grandchildren: Katelyn Cunningham, Carrie Cunningham, William Lofquest, Owen Lofquest, Logan Failor and Jordan Failor; several nieces and nephews; and her many good friends. Memorials in Mary's name are being designated; or to the First Presbyterian Church or Hospice of Jasper County.