Gerdan Lee Lynch

Gerdan Lee Lynch, 83, of Waynesboro, Virginia, passed away on October 27, 2026, at Augusta Health Hospital in Fishersville, Virginia. Known to friends as Lee and lovingly called Grandpa and Paca by his grandchildren, he was a friend to all and deeply loved his family.

Lee was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, on October 23, 1943, to Carl Lee Lynch and Bettie Jane Lynch. Growing up in a Navy family, he lived in many places, including Panama, which he spoke of often. After graduating from Princess Anne High School, he served four years in the Air Force before attending Old Dominion University, where he earned a degree in Business.

On June 6, 1975, Lee married Sharon McClain at Rodes United Methodist Church. They shared 51 wonderful years of marriage. He worked in Network Support at the University of Virginia before retiring in 2006.

Lee’s lifelong love of running began as a member of the cross country team at Old Dominion University. Running became a cherished part of his daily life. He was a familiar sight running around town and participated in countless races, including marathons, throughout his life. He also shared his love of the sport with others, volunteering for many years as a track and field coach for the local Special Olympics program. When Lee wasn’t running, he enjoyed watching the New York Yankees play baseball.

Above all, Lee held a deep love and admiration for his family and friends. He will be dearly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Lee Lynch and Bettie Jane Lynch; his beloved grandparents, affectionately known as Nana and Tumpy; and his sister, Laura Lynch.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon McClain Lynch; his children, Jessica Smith (Aaron), Aaron Lynch (Kate), and Lindsey Skelton (Nathan); his siblings, Linda Desormeaux (Joe), Jimmy Lynch (Kay), Gary Lynch (Teresa), and Gaynelle Layne (Brad); and his eight grandchildren, Paige, Ethan, Lily, Alex, Jenna, Landon, Will, and Farrah.

“When you're grieving the loss of a loved one, you know what they want from you? They want you to be the kind of person that people will miss as much as you miss them.”

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waynesboro. Family and friends are also invited to celebrate Lee’s life on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from noon to 4:00 p.m. at Valley Mills Farm, 1808 Parkersburg Turnpike, Swoope, VA 24479.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lee's memory to Special Olympics Virginia-Area 5, P.O. Box 1909, Staunton, VA 24402.