Gary Jay Verschelde

Gary Jay Verschelde, 64, of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away on October 12, 2025. Born on September 17, 1961, in Portsmouth, VA, Gary was the beloved son of Muriel Dona Severson and Ronald Herman Verschelde.
Gary was a proud and lifelong Virginian who spent over 30 years working at Peltz Marine, where he was known for his deep knowledge, strong work ethic, and his uncanny ability to find just the right part-often by intuition alone. His coworkers weren't just colleagues; they were family, and Peltz Marine wasn't just a job-it was a second home.
A man of simple joys and sincere heart, Gary had a passion for the thrill of the hunt at garage sales, flea markets, and yard sales. Whether he found a rare treasure or just a good story to bring home, he loved the adventure and camaraderie of it all.
More than anything, Gary loved his family. Affectionately known to many as "Aunt Gario," he wore the nickname with pride and humor. He brought warmth, laughter, and a touch of mischief to every family gathering, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Gary is survived by his mother, Muriel Dona Verschelde, and his father, Ronald Herman Verschelde; his daughter Tiffany Verschelde and grandchildren Madelyn Bryant and Patrick Ward; his brothers Bradley Verschelde (Kathy) and their children Matthew and Kathryn (and her daughter Karrigan Cummings), and Roddy Verschelde and his daughter Sarah; his sister Allyson Pratt (Sam) and their children Ian and Jacob; and his niece Madison Pretlow.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Kimberly Ripley Adams-Madison's mother-who surely welcomed him with a smile and a familiar joke.
A celebration of Gary's life will be held at a later date. In the meantime, his family encourages you to honor Gary in the way he would've loved best: browse a yard sale, visit a flea market, call your family, or share a laugh over coffee. Life, after all, is in the little things-and Gary knew how to cherish every one of them.
Cremation and Funeral Services of Tidewater is assisting Gary's family with the arrangements. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary, please visit our floral store.