dewey guida

Dewey Joseph Guida, Jr., a businessman and restaurateur of Weirton, WV, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was 80 years old.

Born on May 3, 1944, in Steubenville, Ohio, Dewey was the youngest of four children born to Rose Marie (Baio) and Dewey Joseph Guida, Sr.

Dewey graduated from Steubenville Catholic Central High School in 1962. After graduation, Dewey furthered his education at Ohio University and West Liberty State College. With hard work and a belief in God and family, Dewey began his American Dream. From 1965 to 1968, Dewey worked at Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel. In 1968, he went to work with his brother, J.J., selling real estate.

On November 7, 1970, he married the love of his life, Karen Ruth (Luscher) Guida, and the couple moved to Weirton, where they raised their family.

Dewey’s career spanned more than 50 years, during which he made significant contributions to the Weirton community through his work in the building and restaurant industries.

In 1970, Dewey built homes for the Panhandle Realty Company. In 1974, he and his brother, J.J., founded D&J Development, Inc., a building and development company. Together, they built residential homes in Golden Key Acres, Kingsview Estates, Bel Air Addition, Valley Way, Bell Boulevard, and Terrace Heights. They later expanded their business to include multi-family apartments, building more than 72 apartments in Weirton, including Alpine Village and Fox Hollow. Their ventures also included several commercial and office buildings and converting a formerly closed restaurant into Happy’s Restaurant on Main Street. Several months later, they transformed a car wash into Dee Jay’s BBQ Ribs, marking the beginning of Dewey’s second career in the restaurant industry.

Dewey operated Dee Jay’s BBQ Ribs from 1980, initially located on Pennsylvania Avenue, until 2004 when he built his new 210-seat restaurant on Three Springs Drive. Dee Jay’s BBQ Ribs was not just a restaurant, but a culinary institution, recognized as one of the top 50 BBQ restaurants in the country by the Food Network, and the top spot in West Virginia. Over his 38-year restaurant career, Dewey’s success was evident in the diverse clientele he attracted, including numerous athletes from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins, movie stars, entertainers, and political figures, including a former U.S. president, U.S. senators, congressmen, governors, local politicians, and most importantly, his family, friends and the millions of people who loved his ribs.

In addition to his success in the restaurant industry, Dewey was also actively involved in property development, contributing to the construction of Eat ‘n Park and MedExpress, among other projects. He served on numerous local, state, and national boards, including the West Virginia Council of Community and Economic Development, Business Development Corporation, West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association, Ruby Memorial Hospital’s Ronald McDonald House, City of Weirton Planning Commission, Weir -Pac, Upper Ohio Valley Homebuilders Association, and the National Restaurant Association. He was also a member of Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Weirton Chamber of Commerce, Weirton United Way, and West Virginia Make-A-Wish.

In 2003, Governor Bob Wise honored Dewey with the Distinguished West Virginian award. He was also inducted into the Weirton Hall of Fame Class in 2018 and was named the Upper Ohio Valley Italian Festival Italian American of the Year in 2021. Dewey enjoyed lending a hand through his generosity to many worthwhile causes, including Make-A-Wish, United Way, March of Dimes, local high school sports and numerous charity golf outings.

In addition to his parents, Dewey was preceded in death by his brothers, James Joseph “J.J.” Guida and his wife Rita and Anthony J. “Tony” Guida, Sr.; his sister, Constance Griffo, and her husband, Peter “Kang” Griffo; his mother and father-in-law, Betty and Barney Luscher; his sister-in-law, Janet Kirlangitis; and his nieces Jamie Ann Guida and Rosalie Griffo.

Dewey’s love and devotion to his family will always be remembered by his beloved wife of 53 years, Karen, and their four children: Dewey III (Jaime), Joseph, Kara (Clint) Ferringer, and Michael V. (Lynsay); and his five cherished grandchildren: Vinny, Dewey IV, and Aaralyn Guida, and Caden and Camren Ferringer. He  will also be missed by his brothers-in-law, John Luscher (Beverly) and John Kirlangitis, sister-in-law, Shirley Guida, and many nephews and nieces.

Dewey adored his family and found great joy in spending time with them. He was a loving husband, an incredible father who was always there for his children, and an amazing grandfather who loved watching his grandchildren grow. He was a constant pillar of strength and rock for his family, always offering the best advice and wisdom in a steady, calm voice.

Dewey will be remembered for his passion for life and love of people. He had a way of brightening up any room he entered and a presence that commanded attention wherever he went. He was a class act who made everyone feel special with his warmth and upbeat personality. His infectious laugh and warm smile instantly drew people in, and everyone knew they were destined to become lifelong friends with Dewey.

Dewey’s life was a testament to kindness, selflessness, and generosity. He approached every day with a genuine desire to make a positive impact on his family and others around him, and this was evident in everything he did. Always ready to lend a helping hand, he touched the lives of many.

Dewey’s memory will forever be treasured by his family and friends, who will continue to be inspired by his fun-loving attitude, remarkable spirit, larger-than-life personality, and dedication to making the world a better place. His contributions to the Tri-State Area and significant achievements in the restaurant and building industries will leave a lasting impact for many years.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-5 pm  at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, WV.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 10 am at Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, 229 California Ave., Weirton. Please meet at the Church. Entombment will follow at the Mount Calvary Cemetery, Steubenville, Ohio, in the Guida Family Mausoleum.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Brooke Hancock Family Resource Network to benefit children with autism and special needs, 1300 Potomac St., Suite C, Weirton, WV 26062, or to Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, 229 California Ave., Weirton, WV 26062.

Share tributes with his family at www.grecohertnick.com

Services

Public Viewing: May 19, 2024 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Greco Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV 26062

(304) 748-3219
www.grecohertnick.com

Mass of Christian Burial: May 20, 2024 10:00 am

Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church
229 California Avenue
Weirton, WV 26062

304-723-2054

Charities

The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Dewey Joseph Guida 's name.

Brooke Hancock Family Resource Network

1300 Potomac St Suite C.

Weirton, ,

WV

26062

(304) 748 - 7850

www.brookehancockfrn.org

Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church

229 California Avenue

Weirton,

WV

26062

304 723 2054

www.stjoeweirton.org

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. I had the pleasure of meeting Dewey a few weeks ago while celebrating one of his many accomplishments. He far exceeded his wonderful reputation. Watching him interact with the staff, his family and others gave me a small understanding of what he meant to the lives of everyone that he touched. He will be missed. Thoughts and Prayers.

  2. I enjoyed interacting with him over the years, especially when our daughters played sports together and we would replay the games together. My visits to his “office” at the former gas station next to the original DeeJay’s turned into solving the world’s problems, second guessing our kids’ coaches and allowing him to express his trepidation at the major step of building the current DeeJay’s. I haven’t seen him as much recently, but I will never forget out interactions. RIP my “main man”!

  3. Candle Selection 8I am so sorry to hear this. He was the kindest man and had the best family. His ability to remember everyone’s name and make us all feel so special will always stand out. Thinking of you all and praying for your family.

  4. My heart and prayers go to his loved ones.. I have know him for many years. My Brother worked for Dewey for many many years… He thought of Karen and Dewey as family.. I remember the kindness showed to us when my brother Bill passed..I know he filled their harts with so many amazing memories to last till they meet again…. Many hugs with prayers …….

  5. Karen and family, you have my deepest sympathy on your loss of Dewey. I never knew just how much he accomplished in life, wow. Karen, I think about you often and of when you and Irene were young and I got to hang out with you 🙂

  6. Condolences to a great gentleman. We had multiple interactions over the past 30 + years, he always had that great smile and generously welcoming personality!! God be wit him and his family.

    Sincerely,

  7. My deepest condolences on the passing of Dewey. He was such a wonderful and kind person, always with a smile. Rosalie Muzzi

  8. Karen, I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved Dewey. I know he was the love of your life. Prayers to lift yours and your family’s heavy heart ❤️ love you always!

  9. Candle Selection 3My deepest sympathies and prayers to the Guida family. I am so sorry for your loss. Dewey was to me larger than life as a 16 year old kid who was starting his first job. He inspired me to want to be a cook and I went on to Culinary School. I will never forget my first years cooking at Dee-Jays. Rest in Peace, my man🙏

  10. Candle Selection 2Prayers for his family and friends. 🙏 Dewey was always so nice to talk to and will be missed by all.

  11. Candle Selection 7Condolences to the Guida family. He was an amazing and kind man . I’m so honored to have gotten to spend time with him and see him with his family. He will be missed.

  12. Candle Selection 5All our love and condolences to the whole family 💔 What a great friend! Forever prosper on a beach Dewey and we’ll all join your party soon!!! We will miss you 💔
    Love,
    Joe and Tammy Siragusano

  13. Candle Selection 2To the Guida family, I’m so sorry to hear of Dewey’s passing. I had the pleasure of meeting Dewey when I was 10 yrs old at his brother’s Tony home. I lived next door to Tony and Shirley. In later years when I would see Dewey he always had a smile and take time to talk. May Dewey RIP and May God his family the strength to get through this difficult time. Dewey will be missed by all!! 💔

  14. Candle Selection 5Karen and family, there are no words to tell you had badly I feel to hear of Dewey’s passing. He was one of the most generous and caring men I have ever had the pleasure of calling my friend. I ran the United Way Women’s Golf Tournament for 10+ years and Dewey was always generous to a fault. If I didn’t contact him, he called me. He and my husband Warren were good friends and when Warren passed away, Dewey held the wake at the restaurant. It meant so much to me that Dewey was there for me at such a difficult time. God has gained another ANGEL, his name is Dewey! Rest in Peace my friend!

  15. Dewey was everything that a Man could be. He had a bigger than life personality and always made everyone he met feel special and part of his family. He was the best as a Father, husband, brother, uncle, grandfather, community member and friend. He will be missed by so many people. I will say some prayers for Dewey and his family.

  16. Oh Karen, I am heartbroken hearing the news. I pray that you and your family find some peace and comfort through this difficult time. Stay strong my friend! He is watching over you and will get you through this I know. 🙏

  17. To Joe and the Guida Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Dewey was a great man and did so much for so many. He will be greatly missed by all and will always be remembered.

  18. My condolences to Dede’s family. He was a wonderful man. I am Shirley’s cousin and I always called Dewey cousin Deedee. Good bless the whole Guida family. Love to you all.

  19. Candle Selection 5What a great friend. Dewey was such a wonderful combination of caring, family, friendship, community, and laughter. A remarkable life to celebrate and be forever grateful to have shared.

  20. Candle Selection 1He is one of Weirton-Steubenville’s GOAT. Treated everyone like a king. He will be sorely missed.

  21. Candle Selection 7Karen, Dewey Jr., Joe, Kara, Michael and families,
    I am so very sorry to hear of Dewey’s passing. He was a very kind and caring gentleman. I will remember him with fondness.
    With sympathy,
    Rebecca Mantica-Arrico

  22. I am so sorry to hear this. He was such a nice man and his restaurant was a must every time I went back home. My condolences to his family.

  23. Candle Selection 7I had the great pleasure of getting to know Dewey over the last 2+ years. He was gentleman, and I will miss our conversations. My heart goes out to Karen and his family. He will surely be missed. -Jeff Custer

  24. Candle Selection 2Dear Karen, Dewey, Jaime, Joe, Kara, Clint, Michael, and Lynsay – We are so terribly sorry to learn of Dewey’s passing. We have such wonderful memories of time spent together and we will forever remember all your kindness to us and our family. Thinking of you all and praying for you. With all of our love, David & Amy

  25. Candle Selection 2I have known Dewey my whole life and he has always greeted me with a smile and kind words. He was a great man and will be missed by many.

  26. Candle Selection 5To the Guida Family….Mr. Guida was a wonderful person and cherish all the memories you have. I cherish the memories at St. Joseph’s and him being there for all the kids. You are in my prayers during this tough time.

    Kathy David (Barnhart)

  27. Dear Karen, Kara, Mikey and family, Dewey was an exceptional person who will always be remembered for his kindness and love for his family and the people of Weirton. He will be missed by all and that in itself is a major accomplishment in life. We are so sorry, Andi and Joe Paolo

  28. Candle Selection 5My sincere condolences go out to the Guida family. My brother sent me the news that Dewey had passed away. My heart is heavy with sadness. I met Dewey at the restaurant on one of my many trips back to the valley from Columbus, OH. I love good food and more specifically, ribs. Dee-Jays had the best! On one of my trips I asked to meet the owner. The moment I met Dewey I was in awe of his magnetic personality. After reading his obituary, it all makes sense to me. His love of faith, family, and friends were on full display! Next time I am at Dee-Jays, the ribs will be the same, but it will be different. Let Dewey’s passing remind us that all things in this life are temporary. May he rest now and forever in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

  29. Candle Selection 5Memories and Love will heal the pain. But Dewey will live on through his wonderful family. Love you guys and hold onto the great memories of a great guy that worked hard to create a life for his family. ❤️ Scott “Wood” , Tempy, Alaina and Peyton Moore

  30. Dewey was an amazing, kind, & generous man who will be deeply missed by all who knew him, including me. I met him when I was 20yrs old (1983), newly graduated & married…& needed an apartment. He was a wonderful landlord! We spent many a happy time over the years at DeeJay’s…& in the early 2000’s he called his chef in to cook on a Sunday, last minute, to provide ribs & dinner to some guests of mine from Easter Seals who had come to town to preview my business. There’s just not a grand enough word to describe him…
    Blessings & Love to Karen & the family!
    Becca Lamp ♥️♥️♥️

  31. Candle Selection 1I was blessed to have known Dewey for the last 20+ years. Blessed to call him a friend & have been an employee of his. I was the 1st bartender when Gee’s opened. Dewey called me his “bar star.” He had a way of making you always feel… special,noticed & appreciated. He never forgot a face or a name. He was an original. An amazing man,full of class. If you ever had the pleasure of knowing him,you would for sure…never forget him. He will be dearly missed,but will live on in all of my wonderful memories of him. Keeping the Guida family in my thoughts & prayers,during this difficult time. ❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️

  32. Cuz loved you my man!!! You were at” the top of the
    heap”as Sinatra would say, Chippie


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