In Loving Memory of Gary Claybaugh July 15th 1949- November 8th 2026
Today, we remember and celebrate the life of Gary Claybaugh, a man who dedicated much of his life to serving others, serving his country, and taking pride in the work he did. Gary proudly served
20 years in the United States Navy, giving two decades of his life to defending the country he loved. After his military service, he continued his commitment to serving his country by dedicating
another 20 years to civil service. Forty years of service is no small accomplishment. It speaks to the kind of man Gary was: hardworking, dependable, dedicated, and proud to do his part. But Gary’s
life was about so much more than his years of service and the work he did. He was a man who faced life’s challenges, including years of living with a bad back that kept him from doing something
he once loved—running like the wind. For years, his body put limits on what his spirit still wanted to do. There were miles he couldn’t run, roads he couldn’t travel, and moments when pain
reminded him of what he had lost. But there is something comforting to think about today. Gary can run again. No more aching back. No more pain. No more limitations. No more having to slow
down when his heart wants to keep going. Somewhere beyond this life, we like to imagine Gary running like the wind, with nothing holding him back, just as he always should have been able to.
His years of service will never be forgotten, and neither will the life he lived beyond his uniform. The greatest measure of a man isn’t just how many years he served or how hard he worked, but the
memories he leaves behind and the lives he touched along the way. Those who loved Gary will carry his memory forward, remembering his journey, honoring his sacrifices, and finding comfort in
knowing that the struggles he carried in this life are finally behind him. Rest easy, Dad. You gave 20 years to the Navy, 20 years to civil service, and a lifetime of memories to those who knew and
loved you. Fair winds and following seas, Gary. Your watch is over. And now, Dad, (Papa G) run like the wind. You don’t have to stop anymore. Joyce, Bryan, Billy, Kim, Brittany,Tyler, Calah,
lanasia, Jazmine, Jade, Eli, Tommy, Brian, Marla, Steve (Reno), Mark, Bruce (Chuck), Scott (Sporty), Shelly, Jill and Beth. We salute you. Get with your brothers who passed. Love from all of us!
– Corey A. Johnston
Memorial Visitation Friday, November 13, 2026 at 1pm at the Swengel-O’Dell Funeral Home with military rites to follow at 2pm at the funeral home. The Swengel – O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga,
Illinois are assisting the family with arrangements.
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