Gary was born on February 13, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan to Jerry and Kathleen Geralds. He graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1964, and in the following year, he married the love of his life, Joanie. In 1980, Gary, Joanie and their three children made a life-changing decision to leave Michigan and settle in Stigler, OK, where they built their forever home. Gary's love for his family and commitment to their happiness knew no bounds. They shared 47 wonderful years together, building a beautiful life filled with love and cherished memories until Joanie's passing in 2012.
In 2019, he was blessed to meet Betty, who became the second love of his life. They were married in 2021, and with this union, Gary gained two additional daughters and their families, expanding his family even further. Their time together was short, but they packed a lot of laughter, love and fun into those few beautiful years.
Gary dedicated his professional life to ensuring the safety of workers in the mining industry. As a Mining Safety Consultant for 40 years, he trained hundreds of workers and instilled in them his passion for safety. Gary was known for his thoroughness, expertise, and unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of those he trained. He continued to teach and share his knowledge until his final days.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gary actively participated in various clubs and community organizations. Before moving to Oklahoma, Gary contributed to his community as a City Councilman and Mayor Pro Tempore in Madison Heights, MI from 1975 to 1981. He held several offices within the Madison Heights Jaycees, Michigan Jaycees, and served in the JCI senate. He was active as the PTO president as Simonds Elementary school, demonstrating his commitment to the education and well-being of children. After moving to Oklahoma, Gary was valued member of Stigler Masonic Lodge #121 AF and AM for many years, serving as a member of the 21st-degree team. He was also a member of the McAlester Scottish Right, Where he was awarded the prestigious 33rd degree KCCH.
Gary is survived by his wife, Betty Geralds of Stigler, OK. His son, Gary Michael Geralds II, and wife Terra Geralds of Stigler, OK, and his daughters, Tammy Geralds Peoples and her husband Jimmy Peoples of McKinney, TX, Krystal Geralds Cox and her husband Kelly McKiernan of Plano, TX, Laurie Oswalt and her husband Ryan of Tulsa, OK, and Lynn Dority and her husband Tommy Dority of Broken Arrow, OK. Daughter Leslie Croy and husband Victor Croy of Stigler, OK and 2 special "surrogate daughters" Amber and Kris.
Gary was the proud Grandfather of Gary Michael Geralds III (Trey), Cassandra Geralds Edwards and her husband Thomas Edwards of Stigler, OK, Justin Geralds and his girlfriend Claire Barker of Tahlequah, OK, Mallory Carrier, Jillian Field, and Stetson Field of Stigler, OK, Blake and wife Sierra Colton of McKinney, TX, Taylor Colton of Plano, TX, Haley Cox and boyfriend Greg Rideaux of Tulsa, OK, Lindsey Cox and fiance Dravon Espinoza of Houston, TX, Madison Davis and her husband Todd of Tulsa, OK, Shelby Oswalt of Tulsa, OK, and Kailey and Jenna Dority of Broken Arrow, OK. Additionally, Gary was the Great-Grandfather to Sophia Geralds, Olivia Edwards, Chevy Graves and Jentri Millsaps, all of Stigler, OK.
Gary is also survived by his brothers, Glenn Geralds of Chattanooga, TN, Graham Geralds and wife Karen of Hollywood, FL, as well as his sister, Gwendolyn Geralds of Madison Heights, MI. He leaves behind a host of other beloved family members and friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife Joanie Geralds. His parents, Jerry and Kathleen Geralds. Three brothers, Gil, Gerard and Monte Geralds, his sister Norene Perisi Geralds and four sister-in-laws and one brother-in-law.
A visitation will be held at Edward Swanson and Son Funeral Home, 30351 Dequindre Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071 on Friday, July 12, 2024 beginning at 2:00 PM, with a memorial service at 6:00 PM.
His family will lay him to rest alongside his family members at Acacia Park Cemetery in Beverly Hills, Michigan.
Gary Geralds will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a respected professional, and a valued member of his community. His dedication to safety, his passion for teaching, his sense of humor and his unwavering love for his family will never be forgotten.
