Gary Lee Nesbit, 73, of Waterloo, Illinois, passed away on August 14, 2026. Born on September 6, 1952, Gary grew up in Caseyville, where the steady values that shaped his life first took root—values that would be reflected for decades in the way he showed up for his work, his family, and his community. He will be remembered as a beloved and cherished presence, and as a man whose hard-working spirit could be counted on in every season of life.
In the 1970s, Gary served as a police officer in Mascoutah, Illinois, answering a call to public service with quiet dedication. He also worked as an auto mechanic, bringing patience and skill to the kind of hands-on work that keeps others moving forward. Gary later dedicated more than 30 years to ELANTAS, formerly known as P.D. George, where his reliability and work ethic were evident in the long years he gave and the pride he took in doing things well.
Gary is survived by Debbie (Hill) Nesbit, his wife; daughter, Michelle (Andrew) Timmons of Collinsville; only son, Chris (Melanie) Nesbit of Shiloh; a bonus daughter, Tammi Voracek; and grandchildren Daniel, Kylee, and Haylee. He is also survived by his siblings Leo (Joy) Nesbit and Diane (Ken) Karlak, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Clara (Heflin) Nesbit, and wife Janet Nesbit.
The family extends a special thank you for the care shown from Hospice of Southern Illinois.
