It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Gene Coats, who passed away on July 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Gary was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose quiet strength, kind heart, and unwavering love left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He was the backbone of not only his family but also countless friends who became family along the way.

Gary had no enemies, never hesitated to lend a helping hand, and loved without conditions. After dedicating 35 years to Tuthill Corporation, Gary retired to enjoy the simple things that brought him happiness. He loved building and working on drag racing cars, watching NASCAR, playing fantasy football, enjoying Evan Williams Honey, and spending hours perfecting his lawn—earning the title of the family's "Master of the Mow." He could fix almost anything, and everyone knew that if you walked into his house, there was one rule: No shoes on the carpet!

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Ann Coats, and his sister, Shila Henson.

He leaves behind his loving children, Kelci Ann Coats, William Kodi Coats (Christian), and Kyli Lynn (Tyler); his adored grandchildren, Andrew, Mason, Brandi, Westonn, Everlynn, and Greylan, who were the light of his life; his brother, Daryl Coats; his niece, Shelby Hemmings (Roland); his nephew, Levi Coats (Erin); and his former wife, Marci Coats, with whom he remained close and shared the love of raising their family.

Gary's heart extended far beyond his own family. He welcomed so many into his life as if they were his own children, including Calli, R'Leeya, Jeremy, Tyler, and many others. To know Gary was to know unconditional love, quiet wisdom, unwavering loyalty, and a man who would always show up when you needed him.

The world is a little quieter without him, but his legacy lives on in every lesson he taught, every life he touched, and every memory he leaves behind. We will think of him in every freshly mowed yard, every race on Sunday afternoon, every garage project, and every reminder to take our shoes off at the door. Though our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful to have called him Dad, PaPa, Brother, Uncle, and Friend.

Forever loved. Forever missed.