May 7, 1940 – August 22, 2025
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Gary Delk, who departed this life on August 22, 2025.
Born on May 7, 1940, at the Delk family farm in Arcanum, OH, Gary was the beloved son of Olive and Daniel Delk and the second of four brothers, Marvin, Kermit, and David Delk. Gary met his wife, Mary (Meek) at Otterbein University and the two wed on August 10, 1963, after which they moved to Southern California where they created a loving, family home and lived for the remainder of their 58-year marriage.
Gary dedicated his life to his passion of music. He taught music for over 30 years in the Azusa Unified School District and was a musical conductor for the Young Americans performing arts nonprofit for 60 years, spending years into his retirement conducting, supporting, and serving on the Board of Trustees. He also found great joy in his garden – a certified Master Gardener, Gary was known as “Mr. Tomato” and he lovingly shared his gardening tips and the fruits of his labors with friends and family. After 50 years in Southern California, Gary moved to Raleigh, NC to be close to his grandchildren.
Gary will be remembered for his supportiveness, kindness, generosity, apple pies, peanut brittle, and the way he touched the lives of everyone around him. He is survived by brothers Kermit and David Delk, children Emily and Brian Scott (Lyndsey), and grandchildren Everett and Avery.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Friday, August 29 at Zechar Baily Funeral Home (1499 N Broadway St, Greenville, OH 45331), beginning at 12pm for visitors with a service at 1pm. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share in remembering a life so beautifully lived.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Young Americans in honor of Gary’s memory. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.zecharbailey.com for the Delk family.
