Gary Nathaniel Stokes

On Monday, January 5, 2026, Gary Stokes (Pops) passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a profound void in those who loved him most. He was born on November 26, 1950, in Nashville, Tennessee. A wise graduate with a BS degree in Human Services from Bethel College. Gary carried his academic achievements with grace and used his knowledge to inspire those around him. Throughout his life, he was deeply committed to helping children with their education, building leadership skills,and most importantly teaching adults and children to have faith in our Lord and Savior Yeshua (Jesus Christ). His knowledge, leadership, and willingness to mentor others left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege to know him.
Gary was also a Marine, Educator for Children, elderly adults, vulnerable adults, people with developmental disabilities, and was a mental health counselor. Gary was also the founder of Natural Helpers Drug & Alcohol program for the State of Indiana. He was also the founder of (NA) Narcotics Anonymous of South Bend, Indiana. Gary was most passionate about GOD and his family. He married the love of his life Diane and was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife Diane, Son Charles Cortez Stokes (Anna) of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Son Booker Stokes of Atlanta, Georgia; and Son Garrett Stokes (Melissa) of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Gary was a proud grandfather and was blessed with several great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy. He also left behind his siblings; Sister Gloria Jean Stokes, Brother, Charles “Chuckie” Stokes and his wife (Cynthia), and sister Constance (Stokes) McClam and her husband (James McClam), and sister LaDonna Stokes. His Nephews and Nieces whom he shared a special bond with.
Gary’s family mourns the loss of him and will forever hold dear his legacy of love, joy, faith, resilience, and an undeniable Love for Jesus Christ. He is preceded in death by his Mother Nancie Jean Stokes and Father Charles Gladson Stokes, Grandson’s Booker Stokes Jr. “Lil B”and Darius Stokes. The love he spread throughout his family will continue to flourish as they celebrate his life and the memories they created together. Gary Stokes will be remembered for his Bigger than Life spirit, his adventurous heart, and above all, his unwavering love for his family. Gary cherished time spent with his family, whether traveling, fellowshipping, singing and grooving to Earth Wind and Fire, sharing the truths of life with everyone he came across, or enjoying quiet moments at home. Those memories will remain deeply treasured. Gary (Pops) was one of a kind, a one of one who lived 100 lives in one lifetime. Pops carried a very strong Aura and lit up any room he walked in. He was a leader and served as a role model for his family and friends. He is a reminder to everyone that no matter how many obstacles life throws at you or no matter how the cards of life are dealt for you, there is always a way to come out on top without losing touch with your roots and morals.

We will all miss Gary (Pops), but his legacy will live on. He truly was loved by many, and his stories and impact will continue to be told. This isn’t a goodbye, but rather a see you later because we know God is good and we will see him when it’s our time. Everyone who knows Gary (Pops) has a special story about him as he was one of Gods children who lived life to the fullest and did it all. He truly was one in a million that God gave us. In his seventy five years, he touched far more lives than many do in a lifetime.

While we rejoice in faith that we have in Christ and know that death is not the end. Gary showed deep faith even in the darkest valley. He trusted the Lord who healed the blind, raised the dead, and welcomed little children into His arms. We know Gary is safe, whole, joyful, and fully restored in the presence of Jesus. His job as a messenger was completed and received. Yet, the ache of his absence here is real, but we can rejoice as he is with GOD and at PEACE. In all things with God there is Grace, Peace, Beauty, and Joy.