Gary Wayne Stokes 68 passed away Friday April 30, 2021 after a lengthy illness.  Born January 6, 1953 to Robert (Bob) and Wilma Stokes. He is preceded in death by parents, son Robert O. Stokes, brother-in- law Harry Borden, mother and father-in-law Lincoln W & Louise Ellis, nephew in law Roger McKean.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Ellis Stokes, daughter Anna Stokes (VA), sister Janice Borden, and stepson Matthew (Nikki) Pickens.  Grandchildren Destin-Jabez Stokes, Julia Coello, Brooklynn Aguilar, Santiago Aguilar, Zarrick Veney, Jr. Of VA, and Hannah & Halle Pickens of Friendsville, great granddaughter, Charlotte Grace.  Nephew Rusty (Dawn) Borden and great nephew Zack Borden of Maryville.  He was loved by many more family and friends.

Gary is a 1971 graduate of Alcoa HS and had various careers over the years.  He had a God given talent of jewelry design/making which coupled with his love of riding his 1983 Honda Gold Wing as a vendor at the Goldwing Road Riders Association.

In 1987 he told Gail "if you don't ride, there's no need for us to date", not really knowing he would never get her off the bike.  They were married April 26, 1990 at the TN State GWRRA Spring Fling in Pigeon Forge.  They just celebrated 31 years of marriage.

As a young boy, Gary loved to fish whether it was a lake, river, beach, or the deep sea he found great pleasure.  In 1997 Gary totally surrendered his life to God and he loved serving as a missionary in Nicaragua. He put shoes on so many children's feet & food for many families. Over the years he also went to Brazil and Costa Rica many times but the last trip was his favorite, Israel.  It was after that trip that his health began to decline but his love for the Lord and Gail never stopped.

Gary loved being on his lawn mower and with the help of his great buddy, Lonnie Scarbrough, he was able to continue riding his mower through all his health issues.  The family wishes to thank Blount Memorial Hospice nurses Wendy and April, Dr. Budayr and Dr. Vines.

The graveside service will be held at Morganton Cemetery on Wednesday, May 5 ^th at noon with Pastor Jack Midkiff officiating.  Family and friends may attend the graveside as well as the family home.  Arrangements by Miller Funeral Home, Maryville.www.millerfuneralhome.org