Obituaries

Russell W. McGuire, 85, of Elsmere, Kentucky, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Born in Covington, Kentucky, he was one of five sons of the late Gordon Lee and Mary Hope McGuire.

Russell spent many years behind the wheel of his own truck, making his living on the road. He later brought his uncanny ability to repair anything and everything to Meyer Tool, where he served as Head of Maintenance for many years before retiring. Russell could fix just about anything, and retirement gave him more time to do what he enjoyed—tinker, work with his hands, and figure things out.

Russell had a story for just about every occasion, and those who knew him will remember the pleasure of hearing him tell one. He spoke his mind, never met a stranger, and counted many people among his friends. When NASCAR was on, his allegiance belonged to Bill Elliott, and no Earnhardt talk was allowed. It was a small rule that said plenty about Russell: he knew what he liked, and he wasn’t shy about letting you know.

Above all, Russell loved spending time with his family. For those closest to him, it is the everyday moments—his stories, his tinkering, and simply being together—that will be especially missed and lovingly remembered.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy L. McGuire; his daughters, Sharon Gerdes and Melissa Jayne McGuire, the latter of whom passed away in 1963; and his brothers, Dennis McGuire and Garry McGuire.

Russell leaves behind his loving daughter, Suzanne Langen, and her husband, David; his son-in-law, George Gerdes; his cherished grandchildren, Kayla Langen, Austin Langen (Delaney), and Andrew Gerdes; and his precious great-grandchildren, Kolton Langen and Romy Langen. He is also survived by his brothers, Gordon McGuire (Susan) and Darryl McGuire (Joyce); many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly; and his dear friend and neighbor, Phil Davis.

Family and friends will gather on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Stith Funeral Home, 7500 US Hwy 42, Florence, KY 41042. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Erlanger, Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Dragonfly Foundation, 506 Oak Street, Cincinnati, OH 45219, or St. Elizabeth Foundation (Hospice), 1 Medical Village Drive, Edgewood, KY 41017.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.stithfuneralhome.com.