Gary married Cheryl Glascoe on September 1, 1972, in Jackson, Mississippi, beginning a life rooted in devotion to family and the steady presence of home.
Gary was preceded in death by his father, Van Eckles, and his mother, Julia Eckles. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Eckles of Flora, Mississippi; his daughter, Elizabeth Eckels; his son, Shannon Eckles (Stephanie) both of Flora, Mississippi; his sisters, Melba Eckles and Cindy Eckles, both of Clinton, Mississippi; and his brother, Richard Eckles of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and numerous nieces, nephews and extend family.
Visitation will be held at Lakewood Funeral Home, 6011 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209, on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A graveside service will be held at Hillside Family Cemetery, 311 Purvis Rd, Flora, MS 39071, on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at 1:00 pm.