James McGuff

Photo of James McGuff and Kimberly Gaiera, courtesy of Kimberly Gaiera.

Memorial by Kimberly Gaiera 

James McGuff’s fiancée 

James McGuff was a wonderful man. He was my best friend and soul mate. Despite his hardship of being incarcerated at a young age, and doing 25 years of time, he was always able to find the "Silver Lining." He helped me find the positive in any situation. If I had a dilemma in which I felt there was no solution, his sound advice was "Kim, there is always something you can do." And he was absolutely correct. His life was taken way too early. We had hopes and dreams of him being released from prison and getting married. We planned on living into our 80's together. But that was not God's plan for us.

Photo courtesy of Kimberly Gaiera.

James was very spiritual and lived his Catholic faith. His motto was to "leave people better than he found them." He was quick to feed the hungry and help guys who rode in without hygiene supplies. He was always wanting to contribute in any way shape or form that he could. He realized his dream in securing a Braille job at the facility he was placed at. He wrote Braille children's books and really took his craft seriously, following the transcribing rules to the best of his ability. Also, this job entailed proof reading other coworkers' work. James was a perfectionist and his coworkers often got upset with him for being "too picky," but his focus was doing quality work for the blind children that would read books his company transcribed. 

Photo of James McGuff’s art, courtesy of Kimberly Gaiera.

James was also a very gifted artist. He enjoyed making greeting cards, portraits and sports logos for his friends and family. His creative work evolved over the years and his skills were impeccable. James will be missed by many. My life certainly has a big void in it now that he has passed. I am happy for him that he is finally free, but I miss him at the same time. The day he died I found my "guardian angel" charm that I had lost a few months back. I know he is watching over me in heaven.