Gary Lee Phegley

Gary Lee Phegley passed on March 25, 2026, at the age of 65. Born on February 24, 1961, in East St. Louis, Gary lived in Caseyville, Illinois. Gary leaves behind his children: Amanda (Steve) Shopher, Joe (Beth) Phegley, Samantha Phegley, Thomas (Harlie) Elmore; his grandchildren: Joey Shopher, River and Noah Proctor, Quinton Cain, Cierra Peebles, Brennen Pryor, Ace Elmore; and the expected baby, Silas Elmore. Gary’s great-grandchildren, Carter and Charli. A brother to Scott (Debbie), Robert, Dawn, Maria, and April. He was an uncle to many nieces and nephews, a cousin and a friend to many.

Preceded in death by his parents, Henry Tucker and Kathleen Phegley, an infant son, Jeffrey Allen Phegley, a brother, Anthony (Tony) Tucker, and a grandson, Wyatt Daniel Brumberlow.

Gary was a man who truly embraced life’s simple pleasures, finding joy in the outdoors and nature's beauty. He loved taking peaceful hikes, long bike rides, searching for and collecting arrowheads, and spending quiet days fishing. A skilled woodworker and a true jack-of-all-trades, Gary dedicated much of his life to construction, taking pride in the work of his hands. He cherished time with family, especially lively gatherings where he could be found at the grill preparing his famous boneless chicken and pork steaks alongside his beloved peanut butter cookies and rich, homemade fudge. Gary also enjoyed the thrill of playing pinball and trying his luck at the Casino Queen. He had a spirit of adventure, traveling to Jamaica several times and taking scenic road trips simply for the joy of the journey. One of his most treasured memories was a trip to California with his brother Anthony (Tony), a journey he often called the trip of a lifetime.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at Lake View Funeral Home, 5000 North Illinois Street, Fairview Heights, IL 62208, US, on April 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM.