Gary A. Barkley

He was born on September 10, 1954, in Norwich to the late Beverly Ann Streichert and Gage Barkley. From an early age, he was known as a fun-loving boy with a wide circle of friends. He began his education at South New Berlin Elementary School and later graduated from Norwich High School in 1973. During his school years, Gary enjoyed participating in the Rifle Club, an activity that brought him both camaraderie and pride.

Gary’s strong work ethic emerged early when he began delivering newspapers for the Norwich Evening Sun. He later took a position in the shipping and receiving department at Chenango Memorial Hospital. It was there that he met the love of his life, Judy. The two were married on September 10, 1976, a date that held special meaning for Gary as it was his birthday.

Gary and Judy shared a deep love for their extended family and pets. Gary cherished the time spent around the kitchen table playing games like spoons with his siblings, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. These gatherings were among his most treasured moments – filled with laughter, friendly competition and love.

Over the years, Gary built a diverse career working for several local companies including Automecha, Pro-Tel, Webb and Sons, and eventually retiring from Reese-Marshall. In his role delivering gas for Reese-Marshall, Gary became well known throughout the community, not just for his reliable service but for the warm conversations he shared with customers along his route. His gift of gab made every delivery memorable, and his generosity and infectious laughter left lasting impressions wherever he went.

Gary was also a devoted member of the Bills Mafia. He relished watching Buffalo Bills games with family and was fortunate to experience the excitement firsthand at Highmark Stadium.

Gary was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary Judith (Judy) Barkley; his sister, Sheryl Davis; and his brother, Gordon Barkley.

Gary leaves behind his beloved siblings, Mary Ann (reg) Vidler, of Norwich, NY, Terry (Barb) Barkley, of Utica, NY, Deborah (Joe) Loewenstein, of Cincinnati, OH, his sisters in law, Jeanne (Wes) Pray, of Baldwinsville, NY, and Susan Barkley, of Norwich, NY; his brothers in law, Kevin (Claudia) King, of Oxford, NC, and Guy Davis, of Norwich, NY. He is lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews, Shanee (Eric) Lomauro, Kirstin (Chris) Mackey, Michael Loewenstein, Andrew (Brittany) Loewenstein, Hannah Loewenstein, Ben (Tarah) Davis, Mike Davis, Jessica (Bob) Hoople, Cole (Beth) Barkley, Julia (Justin) Herring, Sara Diane (Jason) Nolan, Mary Beth Cavalieri (Lee Gordinier), Becka King, and Maggie Kaufmann, as well as many great-nieces and nephews who brought him immense joy.

Gary’s warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing and joy to those who remember his laughter.

A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory can be made to the SPCA of Chenango County, 6160 County Road 32, Norwich or to the Norwich Family YMCA, 68 N. Broad St. Norwich.