Gary Jess Pardue

Celebrating A Life Well Lived Gary Jess Pardue of Hamptonville was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and left this world unexpectedly on June 2, 2022, at the age of 76. Gary was born on February 1, 1946, in Elkin, NC, one of seven children of the late Jess and late Helen Pardue. Gary graduated in 1964 from West Yadkin High School, where he was the first person at the school to have lettered in four sports, football, basketball, track and field, and baseball, where in baseball, according to Gary, he “never struck out” and “never popped up.” After school, Gary found his professional calling in insurance sales ending his more than 40-year career as General Manager at AIG, where, most importantly to him, he earned annual trips that afforded his family the opportunity to see the world. Gary’s greatest pride, however, came from his family. Even through his successful battle with cancer, he rarely missed an event involving his children or grandchildren. His presence was always memorable and left a mark on all who were lucky enough to hear his tall tales and share a laugh. Those who knew Gary will remember him for his love of a road trip, John Wayne westerns, reading the Sunday paper, and good pie. He lived his life fearlessly and without regret. He never met a stranger, gave the very best advice, and was known for his honesty and quick wit. He was our leader, and rock, and will forever be missed. Left with many wonderful memories are his loving wife of 14 years, Dana Jessup Pardue, children, Christy (Rayford) Dobson, Jason (Sherri) Pardue, Adam Pardue (Mickey Dobson), and Russ Pardue, and stepson Christopher (Amanda) Cook. He was a loving “Papa” to his grandchildren, Rachel Dobson, Dillon (Lakan) Dobson, Maggie Pardue, Wade Pardue, Alli Pardue, Adam Jonah (“AJ”) Pardue, Easton Pardue, Kennedy Cook, Smith Cook, and Salem Cook, and great granddaughter Ember Dobson. Gary is also survived by his siblings, Violet (Bobby, predeceased) Cheek, Rudy (Glenda) Pardue, Sylvia Spann, Andy Pardue, and Jackie Pardue, and was preceded in death by Mary Jo (Alan) Absher, many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends. We will honor Gary’s life at a visitation at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville, on Saturday, June 4th from 6-8 p.m., and a funeral on Sunday, June 5th at 3 p.m. at Flat Rock Baptist Church, Hamptonville. In lieu of flowers, Gary would want you to grab an atlas and plan a road trip with the ones you love. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Pardue family.