Gary Lee Avis
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Lee Avis of Daleville, VA on 10 December 2024. Gary was born in Logan, West Virginia on 23 January 1952 to Richard D. Avis and Irene Trent Avis. At the time of his death he had been married to Judy Forehand Avis for more than 30 years.
Gary had the honor of being a girl dad. His girls were his pride and joy and he often referred to them as his “diamonds”. Tamara (Jason) Smith, Kim (Heather Sturgill) Avis, Ricka (Josh) Gilliland, Alectra Avis and Zeeza Avis. Gary was the grandfather of five, whom he strove to spoil relentlessly (Vivan Smith, Martha Smith, Tucker Smith, Evelyn Smith and Taylor Noell). Gary is also survived by his sister Brenda (Ricky) King and brother, Tim (Beth) Avis and the uncle to Richard Avis and Hope Avis.
Gary spent his younger years growing up in the coal mining mountains of West Virginia where he would use car hoods for sleds and get into as much trouble with his cousins as he could. In 1963 the Avis family relocated to the Roanoke area where he remained until his death. Gary and his father created Avis & Sons Heating and Electrical in 1974 and they both worked there up until each of their deaths.
Gary taught his girls how to change the oil in a car, drive a stick and fix a flat. He taught them to be independent, brave and to stand up for what is right. Gary taught his girls to never give up and to fight the good fight. Gary was the father all father’s should strive to be.
Gary never met a stranger. Whether it was the baby in the grocery store line, the fellow Rat-Rod lover at a car show or the special needs person on the corner waiving to passing cars, Gary could and would strike up a conversation with anyone. Those strangers often became friends and it was a rare occurrence for Gary to go somewhere and not know someone. Gary’s laughter was contagious and regularly flowing. His laugh would carry through a room and you could always tell where he was by just listening for his laugh.
Gary never met a challenge he could not face. Gary never backed down from a problem. Gary was the fixer of all things. He was the one that you went to when you were in need of help, from busted hot water heaters, flat tires, advice on personal matters and the occasional broken heart of one of his girls, Gary could fix almost everything.
Gary was quick to share a story or one of his famous “Confucius says”. We know that he slid into heaven being met by his loved ones and our Almighty Father with a greeting something along the lines of, “It’s about time, you wore that body out.”
Most importantly, and what we will all miss the most, Gary loved big and he shared his love with those around him. He was constantly helping others in need. We do not expect that anyone on this side of heaven will ever truly know the countless selfless acts he did for others or his frequent compassionate tendencies to help those in need. Gary always put others above himself.
A Celebration of life will be held for Gary Avis on January 11th at 11:00 am with visitation beginning at 10:00 am at New Life Christian Ministry at 5745 Airport Rd NW, Roanoke, VA 24012
His absence will leave a hole that cannot be filled. Thank you Geegee for the joy of walking alongside you and sharing your wonderful life with us.