Dennis McGuire, Ohio

Dennis McGuire, Ohio

Dennis B. McGuire was executed by the state of Ohio on January 16, 2014.  Dennis was pronounced dead at 10:53 am local time, inside the execution chamber at the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Mansfield, Ohio.  He was 53 years of age, and was executed for the rape and murder of the pregnant 22-year-old Joy G. Morningstar Stewart on February 11, 1989, near Eaton, Ohio.  Joy’s unborn baby also died as a result of the attack.  Dennis’ execution became controversial, as it took nearly a half-hour and he appeared to have difficulty breathing.

Dennis had a difficult life.  His mother often went hungry while she was pregnant with him and Dennis was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck.  Dennis grew up poor and did not feel safe in his house, as he was often abused.  He lacked positive male role models during his youth.  Dennis worked as a landscaper/manual laborer before his arrest.  Dennis proclaimed he became a Christian during his time on Ohio’s death row.

Please pray for peace and healing for the family of Joy Stewart.  Please pray for the family of Dennis McGuire.  Dennis, as part of his final statement, told his children he would see them in heaven.

For more information regarding how your financial support can help, please click here.