Obituary of James M. Guida

James M. Guida (Jim), 94, died peacefully at home on Monday, May 26, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.  James was born in New York City and was raised in Lyndhurst, NJ and made it his lifelong home.  He graduated from Lyndhurst High School and received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mathematics from Seton Hall University.  He earned 60 Post-Master's credits towards a Doctorate degree in education at St. Louis University where he was a recipient of the National Science Award.  Jim also received his business administration, superintendent, and principal certificates from Montclair State University and Seton Hall University.

Jim taught at Don Bosco Prep and began their now legendary football program as its first coach in 1956 as well as coached the Ironmen to a baseball state championship.  He taught mathematics for 25 years at Lyndhurst High School, coached pop warner football and high school baseball and basketball, and was the Director of the Lyndhurst Day Camp.  

In 1977, Jim was elected to the Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners and proudly served five terms as Mayor, Police Commissioner, Director of the Parks Department, and Finance Director.  He loved his community and embraced any opportunity to serve.

Jim, his wife, and family enjoyed spending the summers at Monterey Beach, their home away from home since 1975.  He served as the Beach Chair and Director of Lifeguards, and was an avid fisherman. 

James is predeceased by his parents, James and Teresa (nee Cutro) Guida and is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Mary Ann Guida (nee Tuzzio), their cherished children, James and his wife, Anita, Christine, Mary Jo and her husband, Ray, dear grandchildren, Kevin, Faryn, Raymond, Jacquelyn, Adam, Nataliana and her husband, Tom, great granddaughters, Giovanna and Celina, and brother, the Hon. Robert R. Guida, J.S.C. (Ret.) and his wife, Camille.  Jim is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and so many friends.  His memory will always be cherished by his wife, children, and grandchildren and his legacy will live on in their hearts forever.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, NJ on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 3 - 7 PM.  All will gather at the funeral home on Saturday, May 31 at 9:30 AM then to St. Mary's Church, Rutherford where at 10:30 AM a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated.  Interment, Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Shriners Children's Hospital online by clicking here.  You may express your condolences to Jim's family by using our tribute wall.