Gary M. Thorpe

Gary Matthew Thorpe, of Philadelphia, passed away unexpectedly on April 24, 2025, at the age of 54. Born on September 5, 1970, he was the cherished son of Jaquelyn Thorpe and the late John Thorpe.
Gary was the beloved husband and best friend of 23 years to Angela Thorpe (née Joerger), with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and countless beautiful moments. He was the devoted brother of John Thorpe and his wife Nancy, and a proud uncle to Valerie and Jack Thorpe. He is also lovingly remembered by his uncle Ray and aunt Gail, and many close friends who were touched by his warmth, humor, and generous spirit.
A devoted animal lover, Gary leaves behind his "fur babies" Jordy (the mischievous one) and Dawson (his "fat baby"), who brought him endless joy. He now joins Rufus, Simian, Milo, and Basil - the pup he and Angela affectionately called "the heart that started their family" - across the rainbow bridge, where they surely awaited him with wagging tails.
Gary was born in Camden and raised in Atco, New Jersey. He graduated from the Art Institute of Philadelphia in 1993 and carried a lifelong passion for the arts, drawing inspiration from the works of Picasso and Monet. A creator in his own right, Gary brought color and imagination to all that he touched. He was a vibrant part of Philadelphia's nightlife scene, working in local bars and clubs where his leadership and charisma left a lasting mark on those around him. It was in this world that he met Angela, the love of his life, beginning a partnership built on mutual admiration, shared interests, and unwavering support.
Gary had an infectious enthusiasm for pop culture, especially the Star Wars saga, Marvel Universe, and the classic animated Disney films he and Angela loved-Sleeping Beauty among their favorites. He was also a dedicated martial arts student and a passionate follower of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, appreciating the discipline and skill behind the sport.
At home, Gary found joy in cooking with Angela. Influenced by his favorite chef Bobby Flay and countless Food Network episodes, he took pride in preparing barbeque, seafood, and steak - though he often declared that nothing compared to Angela's deviled eggs and chili. The kitchen was their happy place, often filled with music and the sound of their laughter as they danced between the stove and sink.
He treasured time spent with family, especially at his mom's place in Wildwood, where he found peace in the company of loved ones. Evenings were spent watching Jeopardy or quoting obscure movies with his brother John - a small but meaningful tradition that spoke to the closeness they shared.
Gary's life was one of creativity, love, loyalty, and laughter. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in every shared meal, every inside joke, every moment of joy he helped create
Family and friends are invited to Gary's Life Celebration on Monday, May 5, 2025 at the John F. Givnish Funeral Home, located at 10975 Academy Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until his Funeral Service begins at 1:00 P.M. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.
Family services are entrusted to John F. Givnish of Philadelphia, 215-281-0100. To share your own memories of Gary with the family, please visit us at www.lifecelebration.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary, please visit our floral store.