Obituary

Gary Wayne Dees, Sr.

January 31, 1949 - January 15, 2024

Gary Wayne Dees, Sr. of  Kentwood was born on January 31, 1949, and went to be with the Lord and his soulmate on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the age of 74. His devoted wife of 50 years was surely waiting as he entered the arms of his Savior. 

Gary, called by many “Poppa”, was known to be a slightly rugged man in earlier years but later became a humble and devoted husband, dad, and grandpa. He adored his family, the Lord, and his church family. Although he wasn’t always a fan of animals his wife would bring home, he later grew the same heart for animals. However, his heart seemed  to revolve around his grandkids and he was the foundation of his family. Earlier in his life Gary served 4 years in the Army and participated in 2 tours to Vietnam. Throughout the years after his service, Gary went through many trials as his body began to fail him. He lost a majority of his vision, yet never failed to make the best out of his circumstances even if it meant making jokes of himself. He was a veteran, a fighter, a committed husband, a firm father, and a passionate grandfather. 

He is survived by his oldest son, Gary Dees, Jr. and wife, Sarah Dees of Roseland, LA, youngest son, Jonathan Leo Dees and wife, Amy Dees of Albany, LA, and daughter, Leslie Jannell Dees and friend, Ronald Walker of Wilmer, LA; his grandchildren, Shawn Walker and wife, Beth Walker, Brentley Dees, Alex Miller and Madison, Olivia Dees and Beau Slaven, Meghan Dees and Nathan Graves, and Trey Dees; great-grandchildren, Lexie, and Lizzie Walker. As well as survived by his siblings, Lester Dees and wife, Judy, Nell Dees and wife, Glenda, Reed Dees and wife Chris , Nell Bond, Sarah Bankston, and Sharon Lindsey; and numerous nieces, nephews, church family, and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Ima Jean Dees; his loving wife, Maxine Janet Dees; sister, Carrol Reed Dees; nephew, Brentley Reed Dees, and great-grand-daughter, Arianna Luella Miller; three brothers-in-law, Charles F. Bond, Jerry Lindsey, and Leroy Bankston. 

Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Friday, January 19, 2024  and from 8:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Eric Catha and Bro. Rick Ledoux. Interment Dees Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.