Gary Alan Shay

Gary touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humor all the way to the end.

Being a proud patriot and having a deep love of his country, Gary served 4 years in the United States Coast Guard and his military service lead him to San Diego, CA; Cape May, NJ and subsequently to Wilmington, NC. After completing his military service, he then began a challenging but rewarding 38+ year career in law enforcement with the Wilmington Police Department, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Department, and the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Special Police Unit.

His favorite all-time interest was, at one time, as an avid golfer and he truly loved and enjoyed playing the game with his friends and co-workers.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife Madeline (nee Ward); one brother, Jim Shay and his wife Jackie; one sister Linda Shay; one birth child, Madusta Cassidy and husband Paul; one niece, Jenny Baylor and husband Scott; one nephew, Jay Shay and wife April. He is also survived by 1 great niece and 3 great nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Eleanor Shay.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend services which are being held on Monday, January 27, 2014 at Coble Ward-Smith, 3915 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC. Visitation is 12-1 pm and chapel/funeral service will follow at 1 pm at the funeral home. Burial with military/police honors will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1311 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC.

Share your memories or express your condolences by signing the Guest Book at the website below:

http://www.dignitymemorial.com/coble-ward-smith-funeral-home-wilmington/en-us/index.page

The staff of Coble Ward-Smith is honored to serve the family of Gary Alan Shay.