Gary Melvin Young

April 18, 1941 - December 31, 2021

Gary Melvin Young passed away Friday, December 31, 2021, at his home in Washington DC. Gary was born April 18, 1941 in Urbanna, Illinois, son of Homer and Geneva Young. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree and in 1968 with a master’s degree, both in Political Science. He was an active member and alumnus of the Delta Phi fraternity, and was house president his senior year. Gary served in the Illinois and District of Columbia Army National Guard, and was honorably discharged in 1970. He was a federal civil servant from 1966 to 1997, retiring as a Social Sciences Program Specialist for the US Census Bureau.

Gary was a Washington DC resident since 1968. He had numerous friends and volunteered with several organizations that promoted healthcare, education, gay and civil rights. Gary was a true gentleman from a bygone era and is remembered for his fierce independence, dry wit, kind nature, soft-spoken voice, love of running, and extensive knowledge of the best restaurants and events in DC!

Gary was preceded in death by his devoted life partner of 46 years, Jorge Zapata. He is survived by his cousins Reva Hart, Reva Lois Brown, Pat Beverly, Edward Mahurin, and many 2nd cousins. There will be a virtual memorial service for Gary on Sunday, January 16 at 7:00pm EST. Family and friends may contact DeVol Funeral Home www.devolfuneralhome.com for details.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents of The Residences at Thomas Circle for enabling Gary to maintain his independence until his final day. Expressions of sympathy can be made by donating to Waterfront Village, 800 Maine Ave SW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20024. www.dcwaterfrontvillage.org

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