John Harding Gary Jr.

John had many accomplishments that meant the world to both he and his family and friends. He was a U.S. Navy Combat Corpsman for 8 years, 1 month, and 5 days. He was also the Chief Radiological Technician at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center for 35 years. He was also part of the Color Guard for the St. Francis branch of the Knights of Columbus as well as being a part of the Boy Scouts of America as both a scout and leader for over 50 years. Through all of the many accomplishments in his life, he held in very high regard his time with the Boy Scouts. He was a scout as a young boy then a scout leader as an adult. He mentored and trained hundreds of scouts. Today many grown men are saddened and brought to tears by his passing. Mr. John Gary was the one who helped mold them into the men they are today.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John H. Sr. and Victorine Gary; his step-mother, Beverly Rivet; and his step-brother, Jimmy Watkins.

John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Estrella; his sons, Matt Gary, Chris Gary and wife, Sandi; his grandson, John R. Gary; his sister, Judith Heck; and his brother Barry Gary.

The family will receive friends from 5:00pm to 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at Byrum Funeral Home Chapel with a rosary beginning at 6:00pm. A funeral mass celebrating John’s life will be at 10:00am on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lancaster with interment to follow at Laurel Land Memorial Park.