Gary Wayne Ellison, 76, passed away on February 27, 2025, after a brief battle with lung cancer, he is gone too soon.

Born in Tuscaloosa and raised in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, Gary attended W.A. Berry High School. He was a decorated Marine who honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. He received the honors of a Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars (recognizing service in three campaigns), National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Marksmanship Badge.

After a career in the automotive industry, he retired and settled in Duluth, Georgia. Never one to be idle, Gary spent his time volunteering as a driver, delivering bread to food pantries and shelters.

He was a devoted friend, an avid animal lover (with a soft spot for canine rescues), and a passionate Alabama football fan, always cheering on the Crimson Tide. Known for his sharp sense of humor and collection of comical T-shirts, he had a gift for making others laugh.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Donald Reid Ellison. He is survived by his daughter, Becky Swanson (Dennis), and grandsons Ryan and Colin of Wedowee, Alabama; his son, Bill Ellison (Jennifer), granddaughter Madison and grandson Cameron of Cumming, Georgia; his mother, Mary Ellison Collins; and his sisters, Donna West (Larry), Marlene Shealy (Randy), and Marcella Shepherd (Roy), all of Birmingham. He is also remembered by many nieces nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

A private ceremony will be held in Hyden, Kentucky, a place that held some of his fondest memories. In memoriam, donations to his favorite charities, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Tunnel to Towers, would be appreciated.