Gary James Carnot

Gary James Carnot, 75, of Salem, Va., born on September 22, 1948, went to join the Lord and to be with His mother, father, and his brother on Friday, October 27, 2023.

Gary was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, caring brother, and a selfless friend.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Yvonne; son, Damon; daughter, Dawn Sizemore; two cherished grandchildren; his adoring sister, Rosemary Myers; and his loving sister-in-law, Sandra Carnot. He leaves behind a beautiful extended family and many devoted friends.

Gary Carnot's life was a testament to selflessness, service, and a deep commitment to his family, friends, and community. He was a Vietnam Veteran who served two honorable tours of duty, demonstrating unwavering bravery and sacrifice in service to his country at a time of war.

Upon returning to civilian life, Gary went on to college earning his degree, a first for the family at the time! He then embarked on a fulfilling career as a public school teacher. He had a rare ability to inspire and guide his students, fostering a love for learning that would stay with them forever. Gary would beam with joy when a student of his would approach him years later with a story of how he inspired them to pursue a particular path on their life journey.

In 2011, Gary Carnot retired from his teaching career, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, kindness, and encouragement. His thirst for knowledge did not cease with his retirement. He loved stopping in at his local library to pick up DVDs and books on the subjects he was interested in. You could also find him checking in daily at the "Y" where he loved to swim.

Gary believed profoundly in assisting his fellow veterans. He humbly provided support and camaraderie to those who had also served their country. For those that suffered from Agent Orange exposure as he did, his compassionate nature and understanding of the unique challenges and difficulties they mutually faced made him a pillar of strength and a source of comfort and solace.

Gary Carnot will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his service to his country, his passion for education, and for being directly invested in the betterment of all those around him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him, and in that way, he will never truly be gone from us.

Gary would want us to extend his love and to thank every one of you for being in his life, if he did not do so already!

A "Celebration of Life" event will be held in his honor at a later scheduled time. Please contact family members directly for that information.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.