Gary A. Ingvardsen

The Lord called him home on Monday, April 26, 2021 at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi.

He is survived by his cherished wife of 43 years, Betty McElroy; children, David and Alan Ingvardsen, Patty Philpott (Donnie); step-daughters, Diane Creamer and Barbara Broussard (John). A brother, Roger Ingvardsen, 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, half-brothers, Donald and Deward Plant, Jr. and grandson, Charles W. Davis, Jr.

He was a proud Master Mason for over 40 years. He belonged to Leavell Wood #620 in Jackson, MS, Past Master and Life Member of Longview #263 in Longview, Washington, Endowed Member of Border #672 in Texarkana, Texas.

He was active in the Order of Eastern Star and belonged to Clinton Chapter #344 in Clinton, MS and was a life member of Maple Chapter #178 in Longview, WA. He served as Worthy Patron 7 times.

He loved camping and traveling and was past National President of the National Camping Travelers, a Masonic camping club.

He was an electrician by trade and retired after 25 years at North Pacific Paper Company in Longview, Washington where he had been the first hourly employee hired.

He enjoyed woodworking and for a while in his younger years supported his family by becoming a cabinet maker. He often said he was going to the shop to make some sawdust.

His greatest love was our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was an itinerant preacher in his 20’s and he loved singing and preaching the gospel. He was an active member of Springridge United Methodist Church in Terry, MS. His greatest desire was to have everyone in his family to know and love Christ as he did.

A celebration of life will be held at Springridge U.M.C., 1083 Davis Rd, Terry, MS 39170, on Thursday, April 29, 221 at 10:30 AM.

Arrangements are being handled by Lakewood Funeral Home. You can visit their website for the extended obituary and online guestbook at lakewoodfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to Brothers and Sisters in Arms Dog Training at www.brotherandsisterptsddogs.org