Gary Blakely, age 52, passed away on May 18, 2024, after a brave and courageous battle from multiple strokes. He left this world behind him surrounded by his family and close friends. 

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Jerome Blakely. Gary is survived by his mother Bernadine (Kashanitz) Blakely and his siblings: Susan Blakely, Scott (Darlene) Blakely, Greg (Sara) Blakely, and Gail McClenney. Gary also had thirteen nieces and nephews that adored him. Gary loved spending time with his family and enjoyed holidays and birthday celebrations. He could not wait until his nephews (TJ, Ryan, and Kevin) were old enough to go to Lollapalooza with him. Gary was just crushed in 2022, when he had his ischemic stroke and he knew he would not be able to go to Lolla with his nieces (Jill and Jessie). Gary was always very good to his family and friends.

Born on September 10, 1971, Gary Stephen Blakely touched the lives of others with his strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Despite facing the challenges from the massive ischemic stroke, in 2022, he remained a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew him. Gary was an amazing son, brother, uncle, friend, coworker, mentor, and nurse. He definitely leaves a huge void in the hearts of those who knew him, as well as many everlasting fond memories.

Throughout his life, Gary brought so much joy and happiness to those around him. His kindness and compassion made such an impact on those who got to know him. Gary’s selflessness and generosity knew no bounds, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of friends and family alike. He was an amazing human being that touched so many lives. 

Gary always made everything seem so much more fun. He had the biggest heart, brightest smile, and an infectious laugh. He did not have to tell a joke to be funny, he was just funny. Gary loved life and did not mind being the center of attention. He was quite the performer. Gary was a great singer and dancer and loved his music. If any of you had watched Gary perform or danced with him, it was quite a pleasure.

Gary enjoyed listening to all genres of music. Gary loved Cyndi Lauper and had often listened to her song “True Colors,” a song that really speaks volumes about him. Gary was always looking below the surface to see what a person was really like. He could see past someone’s flaws, real or not, honoring the true quality of their character. Gary also lived up to the song “True Colors” by not being afraid to show his true self and be exactly who he needed to be. Gary knew that life can be cruel, brutal, tough and hard to bear but instead of changing yourself to try to fit into society, you should just be yourself, unique and special. Indeed Gary was very unique and special.

Gary’s colleagues and other nurses have so many fond memories of finding humor in those emotionally stressful days working in a hospital. Anyone that crossed paths with Gary was truly lucky…especially his patients. Gary always displayed peace in the midst of chaos while working. He made the hard days seem better. Gary guided nurses in best practices on how to care for their patients. He kept the nurses calm and always set them up for success. Gary provided the absolute best quality of care to all of his patients. He truly cared deeply about everyone he came in contact with. Gary made such a difference in this world. His legacy of love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in his journey.

"Gary, you leave a powerful legacy of kindness, love, and acceptance. You can rest assured that you have genuinely changed lives for the better by how you have chosen to live your life. Thank you for sharing your life and legacy with all of us. We will love you forever Gary."

In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation can be made to the American Heart Association in Gary's memory. 

May is American Stroke Month