Gary L. Averitt

Gary L. Averitt, age 62 years, a resident of Metropolis and a former resident of Johnson County, passed away unexpectedly Saturday evening, June 7, 2014, at 8:41 PM at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis. Gary was born November 14, 1951 in Anna. He was the son of William B. Averitt, Sr. and Mary E. (Abner) Averitt. Gary was united in marriage to Patsy Ann Tucker on September 18, 1971 in Goreville, Illinois. She survives. In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by: his children – Chrystal (Brian) Hoyle of Rosiclare, Leisa (Mark) Carpenter of Bardwell, KY, Veronica (Aaron) King of Metropolis, and Gary Michael Averitt of Phoenix, AZ; 7 grandchildren – Britney Nicole Olmsted, Eric Lathum Olmsted, Wayne Lee Bates, Jr., Shonna LeeAnn Bates, Sierra Alexandra King, Ethan Christopher King, and Christian Nathaniel Averitt; 4 brothers – Albert Norton of Simpson, Tom Averitt of Marion, Jesse Averitt of Vienna, and John Paul Averitt of Anna; 3 sisters – Agnes Rose of El Paso, Mary Faulkner and Carol Watkins both of Vienna; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by 2 grandsons – Caleb Matthew Averitt and Dylan Tyler Averitt; a sister – Eva Burgess; and a brother – William B. Averitt, Jr. Gary was a U.S. Army veteran. He had been employed as a manager by U.P.G. (United Propane Gas) Co. in Vienna and was a self-employed mechanic. He enjoyed repairing small engines and lawn mowers. Gary and Patsy worshiped at the Goreville United Pentecostal Church. They were formerly united with Revival Center Pentecostal Church in Cypress, where Gary had served as the Sunday School superintendent, a church bus driver and worked in the youth ministry. Gary had a zest for life and was hardworking. He loved spending time with family and friends. He is remembered as being a man who was a wonderful provider, a doting grandfather, fun-loving and quick with a joke. Gary enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter, fisherman, and gardener. He also enjoyed watching and feeding the birds in his yard. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday afternoon, June 11, 2014, at 1 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Pastor R.G. Null and Pastor Tex Perry will officiate. Burial will be in the Berea Cemetery, southeast of Vienna. Military graveside rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 11 AM – 1 PM at Bailey Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Goreville United Pentecostal Church, PO Box 188, Goreville, IL 62939

Gary L. Averitt

November 14, 1951 - June 7, 2014