Gary John Lashway

Born in Glens Falls, New York, on May 23, 1935, Gary was the son of the late Royal J. Lashway and Ida C. (Robbins) Lashway.

Gary graduated from South Glens Falls Central High School, where he excelled in both football and baseball. An active and well-rounded student, he also participated in band, chorus, and Varsity Club. He went on to attend Syracuse University, graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Science.

On August 24, 1957, Gary married the love of his life, Lola Hassler, at First Presbyterian Church in Palmyra, New York. Together they shared a devoted marriage of nearly 69 years and were blessed with two children, Kim Barton Lashway and Matthew Brian Lashway. 

Following college, Gary began his engineering career with International Paper Company’s Research Division before joining General Electric’s Semiconductor Division in Clyde, New York, as a Manufacturing Engineer. He later served as a Senior Project Engineer with Vogt Manufacturing in Rochester before returning to General Electric in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1968.

In 1970, Gary began what would become a distinguished 27-year career with the South Carolina Department of Education. During his tenure, he served in several leadership positions, including Industrial Liaison Coordinator, Supervisor of the Research Coordinating Unit, and Supervisor of Planning and Accountability. He retired in 1996 after a career marked by dedication, integrity, and public service.

Gary’s faith was the foundation of his life. He faithfully served as an Adult Sunday School teacher and Deacon at MacGregor Presbyterian Church and later continued those same ministries at Westminster Presbyterian Church. He loved studying God’s Word and investing in the lives of others through teaching and service.

Family was Gary’s greatest joy. He treasured time with those he loved and never missed an opportunity to gather around the table, enjoy a card game, or share a good laugh. He was an enthusiastic player of bridge, backgammon, poker, and Mexican Train Dominoes. Gary and Lola especially enjoyed weekly movie dates followed by dinner with friends.

An avid sportsman, Gary loved both tennis and golf. He was the first to laugh about his infamous golf slice, joking that he spent more time searching for golf balls in the woods than hitting them down the fairway—but at least it was good exercise.

Gary will be remembered as a kind, intelligent, patient, and dependable man whose quiet strength, gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and love for his family left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Royal and Ida Lashway, his beloved wife Lola Hassler Lashway, and his son-in-law, Jack Lee Barton.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Kim Lashway Barton; his son, Matthew Lashway (Maria Kokolis); six cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth Barton Bair (Todd Richard), Catherine Barton Lawrie (Derek), Griffin Lee Barton, Christopher James Lashway (Kate) Collin Anthony Lashway; and six precious great-grandchildren, Hudson Griffin Barton, Penelope Quinn Lashway, Brady Carter Lashway, Rhodes Alexander Lawrie, John Luke Lawrie and Grace Elizabeth Lawrie, all of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, caregivers, and members of the community who have offered their prayers, love, and support during this time.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Gary John Lashway will be held Saturday, August 15th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at The River Center at Saluda Shoals Park, in the TD Bank Room located at 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

Following the luncheon, the family will gather for a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to Sharing God’s Love 147 Friarsgate Blvd, Irmo SC, 29063.