Mr. Gary Eugene Shipley, age 84 of Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Margate Health & Rehab Center, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

Gary was born on January 21, 1942, in Springfield, Illinois, to the late Robert Fredrick Shipley and Elizabeth Green Shipley. He possessed a strong work ethic and a dedicated spirit, which led him into a career as an oil well developer. For many years, Gary worked hard drilling oil fields across Illinois, a profession that required grit and skill. He was a salesman for Wolverine Brass for over 30 years. He was one of the top 3 salesman. In his later years, he found peace and community in the mountains of Mouth of Wilson. Gary had a deep, boundless love for his grandchildren, who affectionately knew and called him "Opa."

Gary’s legacy of love lives on through his family. He is survived by:  his lovely wife, Linda Elaine Vanselow Shipley; a son, David Shipley and wife, Stephanie, of Mouth of Wilson, VA; five grandchildren: Jamie Shipley, Audrey Shipley (Michael), Brockton Shipley, Jacob Shipley, and Brooke Vannoy; two great-grandchildren: Opal Dean and Iris Dean; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Christopher Hannon Shipley; and his brother, Mark Shipley.