Gary E. Phifer Sr., 86, of Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on November 28, 2025. Born on July 14, 193,9 in Darbyville, Ohio.
He was the cherished son of John Lee and Violet Bessie (Byrd) Phifer. He was an avid Circleville Tigers fan and Reds fan. A devoted servant of God, Gary proudly served as a deacon at Second Baptist Church, where his steady faith and kindness touched countless lives. He was a proud veteran and retired member of the United States Army. He later worked for A&P and Big Bear grocery stores, forming lifelong friendships. He was also a loyal member of the Browns Backers.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Loretta E. (Jones) Phifer; his parents; brothers Don, Elmer, Robert, John, and Ray; and sisters Addy, Mary, Shirley, Betty, Naomi, and Wanda. He is survived by his son, Gary E. (Glenda) Phifer Jr., and daughter, Kelley E. Phifer, grandsons Aaron (Laura) Phifer, Adam (Hilary) Phifer, Garret Phifer Woods, and Kenton Phifer Woods, and six great-grandbabies. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Charlotte Hill, and brother-in-law Kenneth (Diane) Jones, along with many extended family members and friends.
His legacy of faith, family, humor, and unwavering love will live on forever. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Wellman Funeral Home, Circleville, with burial to follow in Forest Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to the funeral home in Gary’s name.
Online condolences can be made to www.wellmanfuneralhomes.com.
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