Thomas Martin McGuire
Thomas Martin McGuire, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully at 96 in Greenwich, CT on May 2, 2024.
Tom was one in a million. A devout Catholic who lived his faith in ways that made a difference to all who knew him, Tom never met a stranger and was always ready to assist anyone at any time. Tom’s warm loving personality and wonderful sense of humor won him endless friendships and deep connections with those whose lives he touched.
Tom was born in New York City to Thomas James and Mary McGuire on August 16, 1927. He was baptized as Thomas James and when confirmed took on the name1927 Martin. An only child who lost his father at the age of 12, he was then raised by his widowed mother and her many Irish sisters which may well have prepared him to be the proud father of 7 daughters.
Tom graduated from Regis High School in NYC in 1944, the University of Notre Dame in 1947 with a B.S in Chemistry, and Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program in 1975. His first job was with Bristol Myers International where he was assigned to São Paulo, Brazil for two years. Tom joined the Army Chemical Corps and then began his illustrious career in the world of business, where he would make a name for himself as a meticulous and shrewd corporate leader. He was with Union Carbide and RichardsonVicks, where he headed up the Latin America and Far East divisions and traveled extensively for decades. In later years he would teach at Barry University in Florida and the Harvard MBA program. His career led him to move
his family to Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City, providing rich cultural experiences. They finally settled in Greenwich, CT where he was an active member of Saint Mary’s parish for 40 years. During that time he was instrumental in the formation and oversight of the Greenwich Catholic School, the expansion of Saint Mary’s Church facilities on Greenwich Avenue, and other initiatives related to the church.
Tom met the love of his life, Elvira Marina Alvarez, while both were in a theater group in São Paulo in 1952. Thus began a love story like no other. Tom and LV instilled in their daughters a love of family, travel and adventure, and the arts. Their marriage was a model of love, devotion and commitment, and their daughters were blessed to witness one of the greatest love affairs of all time. As a husband, Tom was a romantic; as a father, he was always available as a mentor and friend and modeled an incomparable work ethic.
Tom adored his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was always keen to spend time with them, engage in conversation and know their interests. He loved and was so proud of each of them, and wanted them to have the moon and stars.
Tom McGuire was endowed with the gift of gab. A lover of a good story and irreverent humor, Tom enjoyed people, their unique differences, their histories and good natured banter with anyone willing to engage. He was proud of his own family history, his Irish roots in County Mayo, his parents’ Irish immigrant love story and his large extended family abroad.
He was a diehard fan of the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and for years traveled with LV to attend as many games as possible. He treasured all things Notre Dame and proudly donned his ND cap when out and about.
He was a crooner who sang “Oh Danny Boy” at family gatherings and left everyone in tears. He sang Irish love songs to his wife and loved her through her continuing battle with Alzheimer’s. His devotion and their love was noticed by all.
Tom was predeceased by his parents Thomas James and Mary (Greeley) McGuire and his beloved daughter Andrea McGuire. He is survived by his cherished wife of 70 years Elvira, daughters Marina McGuire-McCabe, Sharon (Hank) Librandi, Deidre Brennen, Sheila McGuire, Vivian (Michael) Harris, Olivia McGuire (Bob Anderson), grandchildren Caitlin, Scott (Kerri-Anne), Tara (Mike), Mary (Casey), Jimmy (Tina), Steven, Justin, Alex (Siri), Christian, Cameron, Emily, Anna ( Jake), and Devon, great-grandchildren Connor, Liam, Mia, Fiona, Lilly, Harper, Vincenzo, Antonio and Juniper, nieces, nephews and cousins in PA, Australia and the UK.
Tom, you will live in our hearts forever.
Tom’s funeral and celebration of life will be held in July, date to be announced.
In lieu of flowers please kindly consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org