Gary was born in Allentown, PA on December 25, 1936. He attended Allentown Highschool and graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management. Gary loved his country and served honorably in the Army before embarking on a managerial career at Howard Johnson, Truck Stops of America, and Comdata.

Gary married Eleanor Vela Pyke on March 23, 1968. They shared fifty years of Covenant commitment. Gary faithfully defended his beloved wife and cared for her until she rested in peace on April 16, 2018. Together they raised their son and Eleanor’s two children, whom he loved as his own. Their family grew to include six grandsons and a granddaughter:

Laurie (Vincent) Legg and children Steven, Andrew, and Ryan; David (Becky) Jones, and children Adam and Whitney; and Dean (Barbie) Bankes, and children Tristan and Aidan. Gary is survived by his older brother, Bruce, two nephews, Bruce Jr. and Adam, and a niece, Linda.

In 1996, the family mourned the loss of Laurie and Larry McKnight’s precious son, Andrew, at the tender age of eight. Gary and his family grieved the loss of his nephew, Adam in 2017.

On December 8, 2019, Gary wed a longtime friend, Shirley. She passed away on January 23, 2026.

Gary was a dedicated member of Parish Presbyterian Church and occasionally attended Cornerstone Presbyterian Church with his family. Gary regularly participated in two, sometimes three, weekly men's Bible study groups, and loved his band of brothers in the faith.

Cherishing time with family and friends, Gary relished annual trips to Maine with Eleanor. He enjoyed boating, fishing, and vacationing at the beach and lake. A true-blue Penn State football fan, Gary also enjoyed running, going to the gym, and working on projects with loved ones.

Gary, a follower of Christ, was a steady leader, who offered wise counsel. His life was marked by loyalty, kindness, and hospitality. He earnestly studied the Scriptures, and prayed for family, friends, and strangers. Gary will be remembered for his profound love of his Redeemer King.

Gary entered into the rest of his Master on July 9, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Gary to Parish Presbyterian Church’s Chalmers Fund supporting Christian education for students. You may donate via mail to 4150 Clovercroft Rd, Franklin, TN 37067, or online at https://parishpres.breezechms.com/give/online

Surely Goodness & Mercy followed Gary all the days of his life, and he shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Well done, good and faithful servant.