On Monday, January 5, 2026, Gary Stokes (Pops) passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a profound void in those who loved him most. Throughout his life, he was deeply committed to helping children with their education, building leadership skills,and most importantly teaching adults and children to have faith in our Lord and Savior Yeshua (Jesus Christ). His knowledge, leadership, and willingness to mentor others left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege to know him.
Gary was a Marine, College educated school teacher, and mental health counselor. Gary was most passionate about GOD and his family. He married the love of his life Diane and was a devoted husband and father. He also shared a close and loving bond with his Sons Charles (Corky) Stokes, Booker Stokes, and Garrett Stokes. His Sister Gloria Stokes, Brother, Charles (Chuckie) Stokes, and sister Constance McClam who were a constant source of support and Love throughout his life. Gary cherished time spent with his family, whether traveling, fellowshipping, singing and grooving to Earth Wind and Fire, sharing the truths of life with everyone he came across, or enjoying quiet moments at home. Those memories will remain deeply treasured. Gary (Pops) was one of a kind, a one of one who lived 100 lives in one lifetime. Pops carried a very strong Aura and lit up any room he walked in. He was a leader and served as a role model for his family and friends. He is a reminder to everyone that no matter how many obstacles life throws at you or no matter how the cards of life are dealt for you, there is always a way to come out on top without losing touch with your roots and morals.
We will all miss Gary (Pops), but his legacy will live on. He truly was loved by many, and his stories and impact will continue to be told. This isn’t a goodbye, but rather a see you later because we know God is good and we will see him when it’s our time. Everyone who knows Gary (Pops) has a special story about him as he was one of Gods children who lived life to the fullest and did it all. He truly was one in a million that God gave us. In his seventy five years, he touched far more lives than many do in a lifetime.
The sudden and unexpected nature of Gary’s passing has placed an enormous emotional and financial burden on his family, including his wife, Diane who has had MS for over 35 years, Sons (Charles “Corky” Stokes, Booker Stokes, and Garrett Stokes) In an effort to support them during this incredibly difficult time, we are seeking to raise the money to help cover funeral costs and essential living expenses. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will help honor Gary’s legacy of service and provide meaningful assistance to the family he loved so deeply.
While we rejoice in faith that we have in Christ and know that death is not the end. Gary showed deep faith even in the darkest valley. He trusted the Lord who healed the blind, raised the dead, and welcomed little children into His arms. We know Gary is safe, whole, joyful, and fully restored in the presence of Jesus. And yet, the ache of his absence here is real, but we can rejoice as he is with GOD and at PEACE
Please continue to lift this family up in prayer—for strength and peace that surpasses understanding, and for hope to rise again in time. Thank you for loving this family. Thank you for helping ensure that as we grieve, we do not have to worry about the practical burdens of this unimaginable loss.
“And the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18
In all things with God there is Grace, Peace, Beauty, and Joy