Garey L Bickford

Garey L. Bickford, 47, passed away on July 2, 2025.

Garey was a man of sharp wit, a master of the well-timed smart-ass comment, and someone who could make just about anyone laugh with his love for jokes, pranks, and teasing. Whether behind a grill, a smoker, or in the kitchen baking something incredible, Garey took pride in doing things right-and doing them well.

Garey had a deep love for adventure and the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, geocaching, tearing down trails in his Jeep, scuba diving, reading a good book, and riding motorcycles. He especially loved playing video games with his friends and hanging out with his wife, Jessica-those were some of his favorite moments. Music of all kinds was always playing around him-whether at home, on the road, or around the campfire. His sense of humor was legendary, and family stories-like the infamous (and still contested) radiator incident-will keep his memory alive for years to come.

Garey served his country proudly, first in the Army as a Forward Observer before transferring to the U.S. Air Force, where he worked as a vehicle mechanic. He retired as a Technical Sergeant in 2018 after a distinguished career marked by dedication, discipline, and quiet pride.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jessica Kelley-Bickford; his Aunt Charlene Houle and her husband Paul; his sister Anita Wacome and her husband Danny; his brothers Roy Bickford and wife Lil, Randy Bickford, and Blaine Bickford and wife Robin; and extended family including Eric Wacome and Jamie Elliot.

He was predeceased by his father, Garey "Red" Bickford, and his mother, Marie Bickford.

If you were lucky enough to be part of Garey's inner circle, you knew the true depth of his kindness, loyalty, and love. He was a dog lover, a dependable friend, and someone who made life better simply by being in it.

He will be missed beyond words and remembered with laughter, love, and deep gratitude.

A celebration of Garey's life will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 1 pm at the home of his wife, Jessica Kelley-Bickford, in Ormond Beach, FL. Please contact the family for details. Inurnment will follow on Thursday, July 24th at 2 pm at Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Augusta, ME.