Jim Guenther, 76, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Atrium Health – Concord. Those who knew Jim remember him not only as a devoted husband, father, and friend, but as a man with a deep passion for life, a fierce love for family, and an unyielding spirit.
Born in Portland, Oregon, and raised in Medford, Jim’s journey began with humble roots. After graduating from Medford Senior High School in 1968, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting proudly in the United States Marine Corps. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him a Purple Heart, a testament to his courage and sacrifice.
Jim’s heart was as big as his smile. He found joy in the simple pleasures—restoring classic Dodge Brothers cars, teasing his granddaughter Allison (A OSU Beaver fan), spending time with his beloved dogs Allie and Max, and cheering on the University of Oregon Ducks with unshakable loyalty. His garage was a place of creativity and calm, where old cars were given new life, just as he lived his own life with passion and purpose.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Laura Guenther; his son, Brandon Guenther; his grandson Tyler James, and his first wife, Tonya Guenther. But his spirit lives on vibrantly in the hearts of his loving wife, Sherry Bishop Guenther; his daughter, Johauna Guenther-Read (Blake); his stepsons, Matthew and Jackson Stotts; his cherished granddaughter, Allison Hennick; his sister, Karen Galindo (George); and his nephew, Luke Galindo.
Jim’s passion and humor touched everyone who had the privilege to know him. He was a rock, a storyteller, a dedicated family man who valued every moment with those he loved.
The family will gather with friends to celebrate Jim’s life on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC.
Though Jim may no longer walk beside us, his legacy of love, strength, and devotion will forever remain in our hearts.