James "Jim" Joseph McGurk

James “Jim” Joseph McGurk, 86, of Johnson City, TN, passed away at home on July 30, 2025, after a brief illness, with his wife Jeri reliably by his side. Jim was formerly from Frankfort, KY where he and his family lived for 49 years. He was married to Carol Board McGurk for 43 years until her passing in 2004. Together they raised five children: Tim (Susan VanFleet), Suzanne (Dave Azbill), Matt, Amy, and Beth (Mike Dugan). He was so very proud of his grandchildren: Drew McGurk (Hannah), Patrick McGurk, Matthew Gray, Charlie Dugan, and Evelyn Dugan. Jim was the eldest child born to James Joseph “Joe” and Helen Sutherland McGurk: Anne “Missy” Doyle, Tom “Nunan” McGurk, Ronnie McGurk, and Gary McGurk. He graduated from Lexington Catholic High School and attended the University of Kentucky. He spent 46 years with the Kroger Company, managing stores in Irvine, Paris, and Frankfort. He was not just as a boss, but a mentor. Whether through United Way, Dare to Care, or the local food pantry, Jim found ways to make sure people had what they needed. He was a fixture at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Frankfort and later at St. Mary’s Parish in Johnson City, where he brought both reverence and humor to every gathering. His Derby parties were legendary — equal parts bourbon, laughter, and tradition — and his friendships ran deep and wide. Services for Jim will take place on Friday, August 8th at Good Shepherd Catholic Church starting with Visitation from 10am to noon and followed by Mass of the Resurrection which will be offered at noon. A private family burial will take place at a later date at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Lexington. In honor of Jim’s lifelong commitment to helping others, donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a cause close to his heart.

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