John R. Maguire Sr.

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John spent more than a decade living in New Bern, North Carolina before returning to Southern New Jersey, where he lived the remainder of his years surrounded by the people and places that meant so much to him.

He was predeceased by his beloved son, Zachary George Maguire; his mother, Carole Sophie Elsie Maguire; his sister, Sharon M. Ireland (Maguire); and his brother, Thomas Scott Maguire.

He shared a life of deep love, family, and laughter with his wife, Shannon Bunnell Maguire, the absolute love of his life beyond measure and words.

He will be lovingly remembered by his firstborn son and namesake, John Russell Maguire Jr.; his brother, Robert Michael Maguire; and his sister, Jennifer Rose Maguire Smith and her husband Jared Smith. He will also be forever cherished by Chris Russo and his wife Melissa Russo, Nick Russo and his wife Caitlin Russo, and his daughter Gabrielle Russo.

He will also be remembered with love by his nieces Tiffany Garrison and her husband Kevin Garrison, Mariah Cook, Ciara Cook, and Vanessa Cook.

John’s legacy continues through the grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy: Lucas Russo, Aubery Maguire, Brinley Russo, Payton Russo, Hannah Russo, and Macie Mackowsky.

John was a man who genuinely cared about and loved everyone around him. Those who knew him understood that his heart was as big as his personality. He had a rapid fire wit, a sharp sense of sarcasm, and a brilliant mind. He possessed an expansive knowledge of nearly anything that captured his interest. In fact, when he decided he wanted to fly, he followed that curiosity all the way to becoming a pilot.

From his early teenage years through adulthood, John was also an extremely talented drummer. Music was one of his lifelong passions, and he formed bands that toured throughout the region and gained success. His knowledge of music was vast, especially when it came to 1980s metal. There was not an 80s metal band he didn’t know. Whether behind a drum set or talking music with friends, John carried the same intensity and passion that he brought to everything else in his life.

One of John’s greatest passions was playing pool. It was more than a hobby for him. It was a lifeline, a community, and a place where he built lifelong connections. He often credited pool with saving his life and connecting him to what he lovingly called his “Pool Family.” He was an accomplished APA player who played at AC Billiards, Players Billiards, and in Trenton, New Jersey. John did not just play the game. He lived it. He refereed matches, mentored others, and formed genuine bonds with people who quickly became like family.

Anyone who spent time around John likely heard his well known “verses,” pieces of wisdom and constructive criticism delivered in his unmistakable style, often sounding a little like an “I told you so.” Yet behind every word was someone who wanted others to succeed and grow.

Professionally, John proudly owned and operated Seacoast Remodeling. His talent for design and construction was immeasurable. If someone could dream it, John could build it. His craftsmanship, creativity, and work ethic left a lasting mark in the homes and lives of those he worked with.

Despite all of his talents and accomplishments, nothing compared to the love and devotion John had for the people he cared about. Above all else, he was a father first. To witness him with his children was to see the depth of his character and heart.

John was truly one of a kind. His intelligence, humor, passion, and love for life left a permanent imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Those who loved him will carry his memory, his lessons, and his unmistakable voice with them always. 🎱

Visitation will be held at Horizon Funeral & Cremation Services, 1329 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ 08755, US, on March 14, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.