Virgil Garry Followwill

Virgil Garry Followwill, a beloved grandfather, and caring father, passed away on March 19, 2025, at the Northeast Regional Medical Center. Born on June 21, 1933, in Cummings, Iowa, The son of Virgil and Ruby Followwill who preceded him in death. A sister Evalyn HIll also precedes him in death.

With an education that began at school in Worthington, Missouri, Garry went on to attend technical school in the Quad Cities, where he graduated with a degree in Tool and Die. He took several correspondence courses in appliance repair and furthered his skills with courses in heating and air conditioning through the Kirksville Technical Center. This foundational knowledge propelled him into a rewarding career at Hollister, where he worked diligently for an impressive 39 years before retiring. His strong work ethic and dedication left a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of working alongside him.

Garry was married to his beloved wife, Mary Ellen Miller, on September 7, 1958, with whom he shared countless memories until her passing in 2023. He cherished their relationship deeply, a testament to a union built on love, respect, and shared life experiences.

Garry accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1976 and spent over 40 years serving as a deacon and song leader at Worthington Baptist Church.

He had a deep love for his family, a love that was only amplified when he became a grandfather. Known affectionately as "Grandpa Junker," he took great delight in spending quality time with his grandchildren. He took great pleasure in taking them to the creek for hours of rock hunting, and unadulterated fun. Some of their other adventures include fishing in the Chariton River, mushroom hunting, and making new creations from old junk.

He leaves behind his three devoted sons: Ron and Connie Followwill of Kirksville, Missouri; Steve and Jill Followwill of Chillicothe, Missouri; and Mark and Charlotte Followwill of Bloomfield, Iowa. Each son carries forward the legacy of love and affection that Garry instilled in his family. Also surviving are his brother, Floyd Gerald Followwill, and sister, Mary Marjorie Phipps.

Garry's grandchildren, Amber Followwill, Aaron Followwill, Nathan Followwill, Justin Followwill Echo Still, and Melana Followwill treasure their fond childhood memories spent with their grandfather and will carry his teachings and love in their hearts. Adding to his family legacy, he is also survived by eight great-grandchildren, who will know the adventure of life and the importance of love through the stories they hear.

Family and friends are invited to partake in the celebration of Garry's life. Visitation will be held at the Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel in Kirksville, Missouri, on March 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will follow on March 24, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM, also at the same location. Burial will follow at the Pleasant Home Cemetery in Worthington, Missouri.

Garry Followwill was a man who loved deeply and lived fully. His legacy will continue through the family he adored and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and genuine spirit. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. Memorials in his honor may be left to the Pleasant Home Cemetery or the Worthington Baptist Church.