Gary Douglas Creed, of Shawsville, was set free from a valiant battle with Alzheimer’s as the snow fell to the ground on Jan. 28, 2021.
The son of Melvin Lewis and Ada Mae Moore Creed, Gary will be remembered by his family, friends and all who knew him as a man who proudly served his community, sang in his church choir and cherished his family. There was close to nothing Gary wouldn’t do for his family. If there was ever something his family wanted or needed, he made sure to make it happen. Nothing was impossible when he was on your side.
Success wasn’t handed to Gary. He believed and passed on the idea that if you wanted to be the best, you would have to work harder and longer than everyone else, a trait that his family will carry on in his honor. Gary was employed at Shelor Motor Mile for many years and also served on the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors for 15 years.
He had a passion for basketball and enjoyed watching the game, as well as coaching. His advice on the court transferred to real-life advice as those who received it grew into adults. Gary would encourage his players to “Take the shot if you’re open. You’ll miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Gary encouraged friends and family to take chances when opportunities presented themselves. He wasn’t afraid to take chances and had the ability to create something positive out of a situation that was difficult for others to find the light in.
Lastly, Gary will be remembered for his willingness to stand up for what he believed. He never let the opinion of others sway him from his beliefs and what he thought was right. His community and giving back was important to him as was the success of the younger generation within the community.
Gary was preceded in death by brothers Lewis Creed and John B. Creed, and sisters Mary Huff, Geraldine Carde, and Lorene Brammer.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Creed; a son, Tim Creed and his wife, Barbara; a daughter, Niki Shumate and her husband, John; brothers Wilford Creed and Clyde Creed; a sister, Elizabeth Brammer; granddaughters Bridgette Bradley and her husband, James; Karalee Boggess and her husband Mark; and Karli and Lauryn Shumate; and great-grandchildren Jaxon, Jacob, Holt, Boone and Allie.
Due to COVID-19, the immediate family will have a private memorial service in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you hug your child, call an old friend or teach a child to fish.Time waits for no one.
McCoy Funeral Home in Blacksburg is caring for the Creed family.
