Gary McVay Sr

With profound sadness and love, we announce the passing of Gary Don McVay Sr., known affectionately as Dad or Papa to those who held him dear. Born in Marshfield, Missouri on July 11, 1943, Gary spent his life serving those around him, dedicated to his family, his faith, and his community. A loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Gary's unwavering love and devotion were the pillars that held his family firm. His sense of humor and subtle sarcasm brought laughter to any gathering, while his reliable and loyal presence provided comfort and assurance to all who knew him.
Gary was a beacon of kindness and compassion in Jasper County, Missouri, where he resided for over 60 years. Gary enlisted in the Army and spent 18 months serving his country in Germany, being stationed around the Berlin Wall. Gary's professional life was spent as the owner/operator of McVay Pest Control, a job that he performed with dedication and integrity until his retirement. Beyond his work, Gary was an ardent fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. He shared this passion with Marty, his son, making it a tradition to attend the Opening day at Royals Games together. His love for coaching baseball was a testament to his passion and love for the game. He never missed any of the sporting events that involved his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. One of his biggest pleasures was listening to Sherri Lynn sing. Gary's faith showed itself in what he would say to his family, "Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand. But I know who holds tomorrow and I know who holds my Hand".
A devoted member of the Calvary Church of the Nazarene, Gary's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served as a Sunday School teacher and Superintendent, spreading the word of God with joy and sincerity. The verse from Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight," guided his life. He found joy in cooking, traveling, golfing and most importantly, in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When asked his grandkids all have many fond memories of their trips to Branson.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Julie (Hight) McVay, who was his partner, his confidante, and his best friend whom he said annoyed him often; his children, Gary Jr. (Christina) McVay, Marty (Jennifer) McVay and Sherri Lynn Crismon; grandchildren, Allyssa (Cody) McVay, Dillon McVay, Brooke (Alex) Crismon, A.J. Dobbs, Bella (Manuel) McVay, Trinity Dobbs, Zach (Mayson) McVay; great grandchildren, Skyy McVay, Lincoln McVay, Braylee Pickett, Monroe McVay and his sister Wanda Polodna. Gary will be missed greatly by the nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clay and Freda McVay; siblings Shirley Baumgarner, Carolyn McVay, Jimmy McVay, great granddaughter Hope McVay and his favorite son-in-law Joel Alan Goff.
Gary's legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of everyone he interacted with, as well as those he reached through his faith and love.
In lieu of Flowers please make donations to the family in care of the Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday October 14, 2025 at 11am, at the Joplin Calvary Church of the Nazarene, (2820 Connecticut Ave, Joplin, Mo)
Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Gary. We invite you to leave your memories and photos of Gary, as a tribute to a life well-lived and a man well-loved. May his soul rest in peace and his memory be a blessing to us all.