Gary L. Stottsberry

Gary L. Stottsberry, 87, of South Zanesville, passed away peacefully at Genesis Hospital at 12:50 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Zanesville on October 24, 1937, the son of the late Clair and Grace (Krause) Stottsberry. Gary was a 1957 graduate of South Zanesville High School. He proudly served his country for six years while in the U.S. Army National Guard. He also worked at McGraw-Edison for nearly twenty-five years, until their closure in 1992.

Gary was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend to many. He lived a life defined by hard work, perseverance, and insurmountable strength.

He was known for his witty sense of humor, which could brighten any room and lift the spirits of those around him. He had a gift for making people laugh—and that laughter became one of the many ways he connected with those around him.

Over the years, Gary found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He especially loved fishing at Lake Erie, where he spent countless peaceful hours with a line in the water and the sun on his back. He also enjoyed bowling, watching NASCAR, and spending time with family and friends. Even more, he was a proud supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns, and the Maysville Panthers.

He is survived by his daughter, Michele (Randy) Elson; two sons, Kurt (Jackie) Stottsberry and Kevin (Chris) Stottsberry; five grandchildren, Ashley (Billy) Ellis, Tanner Stottsberry, Tristan Stottsberry, Quentin Stottsberry, and Katie Stottsberry; three great-grandchildren, Kaiden (Lauren King) Kerby, Kamdyn Ellis, and Kasyn Ellis; two step-great-grandchildren, Melaney Ellis and Makenna Ellis; his Southtown Coffee Buddies; and a host of close neighborhood friends.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Vicki L. (Vickers) Stottsberry, who passed away on February 16, 2010; two brothers, Dick Stottsberry and Don Stottsberry; and one sister, Dorothy Butts.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Oaks at Bethesda, especially Brooklyn (Brookie) and Ashley (Lovey) and the staff at Genesis Hospital (4 West) for their unwavering support and compassionate care. Your kindness and dedication have meant the world to us during these last few difficult months.

Friends and family may call from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service, starting at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 Blue Avenue, with Mr. William L. Meaige officiating. He will be laid to rest next to his precious wife, Vicki, at Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery.

To send a note of condolence, or to order flowers or comfort food: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com, follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at

(740) 452- 4551.