Marjorie Cecelia McGuinness, lovingly known as “Margie,” passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and family. She was born on May 8, 1928, in Bloomington, Illinois, the youngest of five children to Daniel and Lillian Cox.
Margie graduated from Illinois State Normal University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education, a reflection of her lifelong love of learning and discipline. A devout Catholic, her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her in all she did.
On July 11, 1950, she married then Lieutenant William V. McGuinness Jr. in Bloomington, Illinois. As a faithful and dedicated military wife, Margie supported her husband’s distinguished career while raising their growing family. Together, they lived in Virginia, New York, Germany, New Mexico, Okinawa, and Washington, D.C., before settling again in Virginia and eventually retiring in Avon, Connecticut. After Bill’s death, she moved to Granby, CT and settled in Gastonia, NC in October, 2021.
During their time in New Mexico, Margie served as President of the Sandia Base Catholic Women’s Club, exemplifying her commitment to faith and community. One of the most remarkable chapters of her life came during their move to Okinawa, when she courageously traveled halfway around the world with her seven young children—an extraordinary feat that was recognized in an article in the Bloomington Pantagraph titled, “Brave Army Wife Moves Seven Children Halfway Around the Globe.”
Margie was deeply involved in her community throughout her life. She participated in women’s clubs, enjoyed bowling, and was a dedicated advocate for pro-life causes. She served as a Cub Scout den mother and as secretary for the Boy Scouts committee. Above all, she devoted herself to raising her large and active family, instilling in them the values of faith, resilience, and generosity. She was a faithful member of All Saints Catholic Church, Lake Wylie, SC where she enjoyed regular participation with her friends at Wednesday’s Meet & Greet.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Lillian Cox; her four siblings, Daniel, Joseph, John, and Mary; her beloved husband, Colonel William V. McGuinness Jr., US Army, Ret.; and her infant son, Joseph Edward McGuinness.
Margie is survived by her eight children: Robert McGuinness (Gerri), William McGuinness (Susan), Anne Anderson (Peter), Kevin McGuinness (Angela), Marie Richter (John), Brian McGuinness (Virginia), Steven McGuinness (Sheila), and Paul McGuinness (Judi). She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and three more on the way—each a testament to the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
Margie will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family and her deep faith. Her life was one of service, sacrifice, and grace, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 2:00-2:45 pm at All Saints Catholic Church, 530 Highway 274, Lake Wylie, SC 29710. Following the visitation, a Funeral Mass will follow at 3:00 pm with Father John P. Giuliani, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in Marjorie’s memory to All Saints Catholic Church, 530 Highway 274, Lake Wylie, SC 29710.