Services for Gary Wayne Stokes will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 12:00 p.m., at Westwood Baptist Church with Bro. Philip Marshall officiating. Interment will follow at Hebron Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Westwood Baptist Church Special Projects Fund.

Gary Stokes, 71, of Meridian, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, surrounded by his family. Gary was a devoted husband to his wife, Debra, for 48 years, a loving father to his daughters, Kelly and Krystal, and the best Papaw to his grandsons, Luke and Logan.

Gary attended Meridian Community College and Mississippi State University where her earned a degree in Business and Accounting. Thereafter, he was employed by Delco Remy in November 1977 and worked there until the plant closed at which time he transferred to the Corvette Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He retired in July 2008 with a total of 31 years of employment with General Motors.

Gary was an active member of Westwood Baptist Church in Meridian where he served as a Deacon and Treasurer, as well as various other roles over the years. He also served as Deacon of Woodburn Baptist Church during his time in Bowling Green.

In his free time, Gary enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and hunting. He was a die-hard Mississippi State fan and enjoyed watching any kind of sport MSU played. He and Debra also loved to travel and always looked forward to spending time with their grandsons.

Gary is survived by his wife, Debra; daughters, Kelly Meglich (Mark) of Birmingham, AL and Krystal Greathouse (Nathaniel) of Bowling Green, KY; grandsons, Luke and Logan Meglich; sisters, Kay Stokes and Jennifer Jones (Andy); sister-in-law, Cheryl Staton (Hagan); several nieces and nephews; as well as numerous great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, G.W. and Barbara Stokes; and nephew, Terry Evans.

Gary was a devoted Christian whose faith was the foundation of his life. He did not seek attention for his beliefs, but instead shared his faith quietly through his actions, his kindness, and the way he treated others. He was a loyal friend, a compassionate listener, and a source of encouragement to many. His gentle spirit, caring heart, and genuine concern for others touched countless lives. Whether offering a helping hand, a comforting word, or simply being present when someone was in need, he reflected God’s love in a way that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His legacy of faith, friendship, and selfless love will continue to inspire those whose lives he so deeply blessed.