Rilla V. McGuire

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss the family of Rilla V. McGuire announce her passing. Rilla passed away in her Spring Hill home on June 19th, 2021, surrounded by those who love her most. Born June 5th, 1947 to the late James and Elizabeth Tacy (Galley) of Lawrence, Massachusetts, Rilla was the youngest of four siblings. Her children recall her stories of working in a dining hall with her sisters, getting meat and spinach pies from Napoli’s, and of summers spent at the cottage her father built on Hampton Beach. Rilla was a majorette and graduated from Lawrence High School in June of 1965. Another significant year that her children recall is the year 1980. March 1980. St. Patrick’s Day to be exact. Her kids recall exactly how Rilla would tell the story of their Dad, of true love, and perhaps fruition. This night at the fireman’s bar, the Relief’s Inn, Billy McGuire would whisper in their mother’s ear that they would “take it slow that year and get together in ‘81”. The two pledged their love to one another to the sounds of Peaches & Herb on their wedding day, February 1st 1981. After three years of marriage, the endless years of parenting began. The couple were blessed with three children. A lifetime of love was cut short with a tragedy in December of 1989. Billy courageously gave his life for those he fought to protect. The void is everlasting but grief is the price we pay for love. After Billy’s death, Rilla retired as a data analyst from Charles River Breeding Laboratories and became a permanent snowbird in the Sunshine State in 1990. She was closer to her parents and closer to the beach. The beach side summer traditions of the Tacy’s were continued within the McGuire clan. A timeshare on Daytona Beach housed some of the children’s fondest memories. Truth be told, whether it was in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean or in their house in Spring Hill, the sun rose and set for Rilla with her children. Erin, Sean, and Megan were her pride and her joy. Her devotion to their happiness and their success took precedence. Anything at any cost. “That’s what moms are for” she would say. The biggest supporter and number one fan in attendance- her kids always knew she was in their corner. The goal of a parent is to be the type of parent you wish you had, Rilla explained to the girls when they were older. She had vowed to be a Mother who vocalized her love to her children and who welcomed open communication. The kids grew up with the warmth of their mother’s love confident it was both unconditional and abundant. A case of mistaken identity in 2004 led Rilla to the jack of all trades; Mr. Raymond Scheels. A first date that would turn into 17 years of partnership. Ray kept Rilla company, kept her happy, and most of all kept her well fed. A chef with a nature to please. Steak and lobster on a whim? As long as it’s served with a side of butter. Recreate what Giada made on the cooking channel? As long as it’s served with a side of butter. “Butter makes it better”. Rilla was firm in her convictions. A good meal coupled with a James Bond movie and a chihuahua on each side became commonplace in the McGuire household. If she wasn’t surrounded by fur, you may also find Rilla surrounded by jewels and gemstones. She loved the “pretties” and anything vintage. Designing and creating full sets of jewelry to wear with every outfit and selling them online afforded Rilla the opportunity to channel both her creative and analytical mind. It was a safe bet on Christmas her daughters and daughter-in-law could anticipate a matching pair of earrings, necklace, bracelet, and ring as well as an abundance of dog/cat treats for the four legged “grandkids”. The McGuire family had it all when they were together: love, laughter, food for their bellies and food for the soul. Her family will forever cherish the memories made and are grateful for the numbered days that turned into years. Rilla was the cornerstone of The McGuire family and she taught her children the foundation for a life full of love and happiness that they will honor in her legacy. Her children find solace knowing when the world gets cold they can wrap themselves in the memories of their Mom until she can wrap her arms around them once again.