Gary Dale Sealey

SIPALAY, PHILIPPINES - Gary Dale Sealey, 55, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at his home in Sipalay, Philippines. Gary was a kind-hearted, compassionate, fun-loving soul who never met a stranger or turned away a person in need. He lived his life caring for others and would give the shirt off his back to anyone who asked. His love shined wherever he went, and people were drawn to his strength of character. He was a loyal servant of God with a faith that was demonstrated by his actions to all who knew him. Gary was born in Hampton, VA and was the oldest son of Barbara Lawson of Poquoson and the late David Sealey. He is survived by his wife, Susie Alejandro Sealey, two sons Shay and Seth all of Sipalay, Philipines, daughter Callie Sealey of Hampton, brothers Todd Sealey (Karen) of Newport News and Shannon Sealey (Andrea) of Poquoson. Gary was a graduate of the Newport News Shipyard Apprentice School, received his B.A. from Christopher Newport University, and M.A. from Old Dominion University. At the Shipyard, he worked as a Quality Inspector for many years. Later, he left to work at Menchville High School where he pursued his true passion of working with others to better themselves through education. He worked to develop a Sports Marketing program and student run credit union that later helped earn his recognition as the National Marketing Teacher of the Year. While teaching, he visited the Philippines with his wife, Susie, and saw first-hand the needs that existed in the schools there. At the same time, he was sponsoring the Key Club at Menchville High School and used that opportunity to launch his foundation which provided educational materials and school supplies to children in the Philippines. This is what eventually lead his move to his wife's home town where he felt called to lead his foundation and make an impact on the children living there. Gary had a strong faith that was demonstrated through this daily life. He was active in his church here in the United States, Liberty Baptist, and continued to share his love of Christ with those he met in the Philippines. During his time in the Philippines, Gary continued to work to improve the lives of the children in Sipalay. He provided a weekly meal for the local school children, brought in donations of school supplies, and opened a local store that focused on providing hard to obtain items at affordable prices which was aptly known as The Sealey Store. A memorial service celebrating the life of Gary will be held at St. Marks United Methodist Church at 99 East Mercury Blvd in Hampton, VA on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 11am. The family welcomes friends to join them at a reception following the service. A formal burial service will be held in the Philippines with Gary's wife and sons there. The family requests that in lieu flowers, donations be made to St. Marks United Methodist Church in Gary's name.