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 served in the Army before working in managerial positions at Howard Johnson, Truck Stops of America, and Comdata.
Gary married Eleanor Pyke on March 23, 1968. They enjoyed fifty years of Covenant commitment before she rested in peace on April 16, 2018. Gary faithfully defended and cared for his beloved wife until the end of her life on earth. They raised two sons and a daughter, and have 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 has an older brother, Bruce, two nephews, Bruce Jr. and Adam and a niece, Linda.
In 1996, Laurie and Larry McKnight lost their precious son, Andrew, at the tender age of eight. Gary lost his nephew, Adam in 2017.
On December 8, 2019, Gary married Shirley, a friend he had known for decades. She passed away on January 23, 2026.
Gary was a member of Parish Presbyterian Church. He occasionally attended Cornerstone Presbyterian Church with his family and participated in two weekly men’s Bible study groups.
Gary loved spending time with family and friends. He and Eleanor relished annual trips to Maine. Gary enjoyed boating, fishing, vacationing with family at the beach and lake, running, going to the gym, and working on projects with family. He was a die-hard Penn State football fan.
Gary is remembered for his loyalty, kindness, and hospitality. He was steady, led by example, and always gave wise counsel. Gary earnestly prayed for family, friends, and strangers. Above all, his profound love for his Redeemer King was evident to all.
Gary entered into the rest of his Master on July 9, 2026. Well done, good and faithful servant.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honour of Gary to Parish Presbyterian Church’s Chalmers Fund for students requiring assistance with Christian education. 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 will dwell in the house of the Lord forever
