SFC (Retired) Giles "Stan" Stanley Gere

SFC (Retired) Giles “Stan” Stanley Gere, a cherished member of his community, passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 4 score and 6 years. Born on April 10, 1939, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Stan lived a life defined by dedication, service, love, and deep faith.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held in Stan's honor on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Nativity Lutheran Church at 1079 Bethlehem Church Rd, Bethlehem, GA 30620 with Pastor Julie Ehlers-King officiating.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Greenlawn Memorial Park at 845 Leesburg Rd, Columbia, SC 29209

Stan graduated from Westerville High School in 1957 before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. Over the course of 32 years of active duty, he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class and retired honorably. His commitment to service continued for another 11 years in the Army Reserves. Following his military career, Stan worked with the National Forestry Service, where his love for nature found a meaningful place.

Stan was married to his best friend and the love of his life, Patricia Anne (Clifford) Gere, for 42 years until her passing. For the 17 years that followed, he continued to count every one of them as if they were still together—faithfully honoring their bond. Together they raised their daughter, Ruthie, who remained the joy of his heart throughout his life.

Stan had a deep appreciation for history, music, and especially singing gospel hymns. He enjoyed pocket watches, collecting tobacco pipes, watching birds, and spending peaceful time outdoors. His love for chocolate was legendary—second only to the love he held for his wife.

For more than a decade, Stan was a devoted member of Nativity Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, GA. During his final year, he became a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Marietta, GA, where he quickly found a church family who embraced him, supported him, and cared for him with extraordinary kindness.

Known affectionately—and sometimes accurately—as a “grumpy old man,” Stan had a close and personal relationship with God. He treasured his family, cheered wholeheartedly for the South Carolina Gamecocks, and adored his faithful feline companion, Miss B.

Stan was deeply grateful for the members of Christ Lutheran Church, whose love and support uplifted him during his last year.

He is survived by his grandson, James Cressman; sister, Margaret Cooperider; chosen family members and caregivers, JoAnna Renzi and her husband George, and Michele Ambio and her husband Frank; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved cat, Miss B. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Pat Gere; daughter, Ruthie Cressman; and parents, Giles and Blanche Gere.

In his final words, Stan shared a message of peace and faith: “My friends, I bid you all adieu, I leave you in God’s care. And if no more I here see you, go on, I’ll meet you there.”

In Lieu of flowers please make donations in Stan's name to the American Diabetes Association at https://diabetes.org/ a charity near and dear to Stan's heart.