September 22, 1940 – March 24, 2025
After surviving multiple bouts with cancer, Gary S. Albright passed away on March 24th at Wayne Healthcare in Greenville, OH, surrounded by close family. Gary was born on September 22, 1940, in Wilson, NY, where he lived for several years before his family moved to Pascagoula, MS. He developed a passion for playing trombone at an early age, and in high school he received the John Phillips Sousa Award for his superior musicianship. After graduating in 1958, he continued his passion for music by enlisting in the Air Force to play in the Air Force Band. While in the service and marching in a parade at WPAFB, Gary crossed paths with Joan Nartker, whom he married on February 3, 1962.
Gary loved dogs, specifically German Shepherds. He enjoyed training and showing them in dog shows in the region, and they remained his pet of choice throughout his life. He also had a love for horses and enjoyed trail riding in his younger days, then dabbled in the harness racing business later in life.
Gary, together with his wife and kids, became an avid golfer. For many years, he enjoyed playing in the Men’s League, couples’ events with Joan, and numerous tournaments at Greenville Country Club. As the family grew, Gary and Joan travelled many miles to watch various sporting events, band & orchestra concerts, and dance recitals for their kids and grandchildren. Gary was also a longtime fan of the University of Dayton Flyers men’s basketball team.
Gary supported his family as an accountant in Greenville, and furthered his career by earning his bachelor’s degree from Wright State University in his late-40’s. He subsequently passed the CPA exam on his first attempt a few years later. Gary also realized a lifelong dream by getting his private pilot’s license in his mid-50’s. Gary enjoyed quiet country living and cutting grass on his property near Gettysburg, OH. His dry sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.
Gary was preceded in death by his wife Joan (Nartker) Albright, his parents Edward & Flora Albright, brothers Ross & Keith Albright, sisters Janice Glass & Sheran Culverwell, middle son Paul Albright, granddaughter Andrea Clark, and grandson-in-law Eric DeBoer. Gary is survived by his children Laura (Bob) Moore, Mike (Barb) Albright, and Mark (Lisa) Albright; daughter-in-law Devonie McLarty; grandchildren Candice DeBoer, Chase Albright, Erin Albright, Andrew (Renee) Albright, Maggie Moore, Ryan Moore, Abbigail Albright and Emily Albright; great granddaughter Emilie DeBoer; and sister Linda Albright Hayes.
A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio at 12:00 PM on Friday, April 11, 2025. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Zechar-Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Association of Darke County at 1111 Sweitzer St, Greenville, OH 45331 or online at cadcinfo.org.