Gary, you lived life to the full, laughed often, loved deeply and made everyone's day brighter simply by being you. You had the most incredible sense of humour that matched Claire's perfectly.
One of the most incredibly intelligent people I have ever met, and you were the very definition of an old-school gentleman. Whether you were singing louder than Alfie Boe, dancing like nobody was watching, doing handstands in the pub or delivering one of your perfectly timed one-liners, you had a gift for making people laugh and smile.
But above all else Gary, your love for Claire is the one thing that will always stand out to me, it was the essence of you, it was your reason for living, the reason you lived and loved life to the full, like no one else I have ever known. For 16 years you and my best friend shared a relationship that was incredibly rare. You adored each other, laughed every single day and built a life full of happiness, kindness and unwavering devotion. You had a relationship that was both extremely rare and extremely precious, and I will be forever grateful for making Claire so happy.
Gary you were a protector and a constant for Joe and Rachel, you adored your beautiful granddaughter Evie, and you chose your friends with care. Those of us fortunate enough to be among them knew you were someone genuine, loyal and utterly dependable.
There will never be another one like you Gary, and the world feels a little quieter without your laughter and booming voice.
Thank you, Gary, for the joy, love and memories you gave to Claire, to your family, and to those of us lucky enough to call you a friend. We will carry those memories with us always.
Rest peacefully, Gary. You were the best!!!
Karen Moody
15/07/2026
