James J. McGurrin

James J. McGurrin, 74, of Clarks Summit, formerly of West Scranton, passed away unexpectedly Friday after being stricken ill. His wife and best friend of 51 years is the former Dolores “Dolly” McDonough.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late James and Ann Cawley McGurrin. He attended Scranton Technical High School and was a member of the former St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Before his retirement, Jim was employed by the Scranton Housing Authority and currently he was employed by the Prescription Center.

Jim was adored and loved by his wife, daughters and granddaughter, and he adored and loved them as well.  He always supported his family and never missed an activity for his girls. He loved baseball and football and was a lifetime Miami Dolphins fan. He also had a reputation as the best horseshoe player around.


Also surviving are daughters, Kelly Gillick and her husband, Gary, of Gouldsboro; and Wendy McGurrin and her husband, Richard Zackoski Jr., of Clarks Summit; a sister, Roseann Bedford and her husband, Harry, of Gainesville, Fla.; Jim’s pride and joy granddaughter, Jenna Santarsiero; several nieces and nephews.


He was also preceded in death by a sister, Loretta Fosse.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 7 p.m. in the Vanston and James Funeral Home, 1401 Ash St., Scranton.

Friends may call Friday from 4 until time of service in the funeral home.

Interment, private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions be made in Jim’s honor to the Children’s Advocacy Center, 1710 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510; or to the Rock Steady Boxing (Fighting Back Against Parkinson’s), 1 Maxson Drive, Old Forge, PA 18518.

10 Comments

  1. Tom and Gayle Culver

    Our heart goes out to you and the entire family. You are in our prayers.

  2. Mike and Denise Haggerty Wharton

    Dolly and family my heart goes out to you at this sad time. Words can’t express the loss of your loved oné until you go through this
    He will be deeply missed
    Mike and I know you’re family along time. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. May he rest in peace.

  3. Sorry for your loss and prayers sent. Heaven has gained an amazing man.
    – Dan Bedford and family.

  4. Shelby Ohotnicky

    I am stricken with sadness by this loss. My family is thinking of you all. I send my love and wishes to your family and especially to my friend, Jenna, who will miss her best friend dearly. I will pray for you and for our beloved Jim who has been called home too soon. Love you all so much and God bless. xoxo

  5. Joylynn

    So sorry Wendy if u need anything ask you have lots of people I know how u feel I lost my mom at Christmas time it hurts so bad. but u will be ok.

  6. James Strempek

    I knew Jim for a long time. My thoughts and prayers are with Dolly and Family. I was surprised to hear of Jim’s passing after recently talking with him at another friend’s viewing. Growing up in Minooka, everyone knew Jim. Jim Strempek from Minooka. Tech ’64.

  7. Larry & Rita Boccadori

    Dear Dolly
    Our Thoughts And Prayers Are With You And Your Family During This Difficult Time. May Jim Rest In Peace.

  8. Marcella Schraeder

    Dolly and Family. We are so sorry for your loss. Mu parents Marcy and Matthew send their love. They are both in rehabilitation after falling. They said they will be in touch.

    Love and Prayers!

  9. Patti licata

    Wendy and Jenna and family. So very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful and kind man who will be missed. Our love and prayers to the family. Hugs and love, patti and Lenny licata and Lenny III.

  10. John kulp

    I just heard of Jim’s passing. I worked with Jim at YSL He was so funny. I miss those days. Sorry for your loss.

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