With profound sadness and immeasurable love, we announce the passing of Darrick Brian McGuire, 49, of Medford, Massachusetts, who died on August 16, 2026.
Darrick grew up in Western Connecticut, where he first discovered his love for football — a passion that shaped his early years and forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. He went on to attend Boston University, studying biology and playing rugby, where he again built deep, enduring bonds that remained throughout his life. From Bethel High School football to BU rugby, to the unforgettable years on Mary Street in Arlington (if you know, you know), and finally to settling into his happiest chapter in Medford, Darrick carried his people with him, always expanding the circle of those he loved.
A devoted husband and best friend to Emily, a proud father to his “little buddy,” Owen (9), and a loving dog dad to Willow, who was always by his side, Darrick built a life rooted in friendship, great food, laughter, and family. And of course, anyone who knew his cooking knows we will spend the rest of our lives politely pretending someone else’s ceviche, seafood stew, or salsa comes close. He was the beloved son of Gladys (Pat) and Kevin McGuire; uncle to Luke, Nora, and Cole; son-in-law, brother-in-law, nephew, cousin; and a friend to more people than could ever be counted — the kind of person whose presence made every room brighter and every gathering warmer.
Professionally, Darrick found a true home at W.R. Grace, where he worked for 20 years and formed yet another circle of lifelong friendships. For the past five years at ACTEGA, he brought his passion and drive to supporting customers and improving manufacturing processes, and his team quickly became his friends. He jokingly called himself the “can man,” a nod to his work in food packaging and his distinctive expertise in aluminum cans.
Darrick had a remarkable gift for friendship. He brought people together with ease and kept them close with his humor, kindness, and unwavering support. Known affectionately as “the mayor” among his oldest and closest friends, Darrick was someone who made every circle feel more connected. He loved to cook and gather people around the table, always making more food than anyone could ever eat. He was funny, tough, and yet so gentle and kind with the people he loved most.
His wife, family, and friends are unable to comprehend a loss so great. He leaves behind a wide circle of people who will honor his memory — in the stories they tell, the kindness they offer, and the love they continue to share around every table where memories of him are spoken. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. We are all better for having known him.
Rest in peace, my love. I’ll see you there.
Darrick’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, 118 High St., Medford, MA. Visiting hours will be held in the Beals-Geake-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 29 Governors Avenue, Medford on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 4 to 7 PM. Interment will be privately held. A gathering of friends and family will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the GoFundMe campaign “Honoring Darrick by Supporting Owen,” with all proceeds dedicated to Owen’s future: https://gofund.me/a6901c576
For those who have already contributed, we are profoundly grateful.