Gary Ray Oliver

Gary Ray Oliver

Gary Ray Oliver, age 73, passed away peacefully and was welcomed to his heavenly home on Thursday, April 22, 2021, after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

He was born on March 20, 1948, in Aberdeen, Mississippi, to Orbin Oliver and Odell (Rea) Oliver. He graduated from Hamilton High School in Hamilton, Mississippi in 1966 and went on to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1967. Following his service of six years, Gary attended Lee University and graduated in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Following graduation, Gary moved to Alaska in 1977, with family to quickly join him, and began teaching 2nd grade. He was a loved and respected teacher by both his students and fellow educators and was fondly remembered for his “sweet treats”. He retired in 1999.

Gary was an avid golfer, reader and a great cook. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and bowling.

Gary was preceded in death by both of his parents, his sister, Marge O’Mary; and a son, Jerry Douglas Oliver. He is survived by his wife, Jin Oliver (nee Pal); his children, Rhonda Oliver-Heath (Warren Heath) and Anthony ‘Tony’ Oliver (Carri Oliver); and four grandchildren, Anthony Oliver, Zachary Oliver, John Leifer and Marissa Leifer.

There is a quote that reads: “A heart is not judged by how much you love, but how much you are loved by others.” Gary Oliver was much loved by many, many people.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 3:00 pm at Sandpiper Golf Club, 6001 Sandpipers Drive, Lakeland, Florida.