Jr Guess

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of JR Guess, who left us on June 27, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born on February 27, 1938, in Bryson City, NC, JR lived a life full of adventure and love. He called Gastonia, NC, home for many years, where he cherished time with family and friends. JR was not just a remarkable Production Supervisor at Westvaco; he was a storyteller extraordinaire, loved to spin tall tales that would leave a smile on everyone's face. His passion for the outdoors shone bright-whether he was fishing, hunting, or camping, he found joy in every moment spent in nature. A true family man, he treasured every chance to gather with his loved ones, never knowing a stranger and always making new friends along the way JR was a navy veteran serving from 1955-1959. He operated Big Nantahala Campground for nearly 40 years.

JR leaves behind a loving family that includes his sons Bryan Guess, James Guess, and Charles Guess, along with his daughter-in-law Denise Guess. He was a proud grandfather to Bryan, Matthew, Jessica, Jason, Justin, Jacob and Crystal O'Sheal and a cherished great-grandfather to Peyton Ingersoll, Peyton Guess, Chloe Guess, Brayden Guess, Naomi Guess, Tobias Guess, Bexley Guess, Koa O'Sheal, Elliott Guess, and Kelsey Jalinskey.

Funeral services for JR will be held at 2:30 pm, Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, 216 Archie Whitesides Road Gastonia. The family will receive friends from 1-2:30 pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Westview Gardens, where he will be laid to rest. The family invites all who knew and loved JR to join them as they celebrate a truly remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sharing your favorite memory of JR or a story that brought a smile to your face. He would have loved hearing them all. Rest in peace, JR; you will be missed dearly.

JR was preceded in death by his parents, John and Callie Guess, his wife, Peggy Guess, and son, Johnny Guess.

The West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service is honored to serve the Guess family. Condolences may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com .