Willie Floyd Gary, Sr.

Deacon Willie Floyd Gary Sr., the beloved son of the late Jonnie E. and Ellen Morgan Gary, and lovingly raised by the late Victoria and Richard Barnes, peacefully transitioned into the arms of his Savior on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Nansemond Pointe Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He joyfully accepted Christ at an early age and lived a life of unwavering faith and service to others.

A native of Suffolk, Virginia, Deacon Gary received his education in the Suffolk public school system, attending East Suffolk High School and later continuing his studies at Paul D. Camp Community College. His sense of duty extended beyond education as he honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he fulfilled his role as a Military Policeman. After being discharged in 1957, he worked for 30 years as a pipe insulator at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

Deacon Gary’s spiritual life was central to his existence. He was a devoted member of Little Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a Deacon and served in various capacities, including Trustee, Sunday School Teacher, and Senior Choir member until 2010. In 2010, he joined East End Baptist Church, where he continued to serve as a Deacon. His dedication extended to the Nansemond Isle of Wright Sunday School Union, where he became involved over 50 years ago under the leadership of Brother Herbert Luke and President Annie Parker. He served as president of the Union from July 1991 until June 2017, impacting many lives during his tenure.

Deacon Gary was also deeply committed to the community. He was an active member of the Prince Hall Masons, belonging to Mt. Vernon Masonic Lodge #48, and took pride in his involvement with the local civic organizations. As president of the Civic League, coach of the first community basketball team, and an active member of the NAACP, he was a fierce advocate for equal rights, particularly during the challenging period of segregation. A passionate leader, Deacon Gary even ran for city council in 2002, earning the affectionate title of "The Mayor of Elephant’s Folk" for his steadfast leadership and influence in his community.

Deacon Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Jonnie Edward and Ellen Morgan Gary, and Richard and Victoria Barnes; his sons, Willie Floyd Gary Jr., Michael Andres Gary Sr., and Eric Dexter Gary; his sister, Ethel Cooper; and his brothers, Johnny E. Gary Sr., James (Buddy) Gary, Charles Herbert Gary, George A. Gary Sr., Fentress Gary, and Willie Parker.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 71 years, Ellen Hicks Gary; three daughters, Nadina Gary and Belinda Steede, both of Suffolk, VA, and Myra Gary Bradburn (Brett) of Gainesville, VA; one sister, Mary Helen Wolfrey of Elizabeth City, NC; 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Deacon Willie Floyd Gary Sr. lived a life marked by faith, service, and love for his family and community. His legacy will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

A public viewing will be held 3-7pm, Wednesday, January 15, 2025 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held 11am, Thursday, January 16, 2025 at East End Baptist Church. He will be entombed at Nansemond-Suffolk Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.