Gary Paul Stergin passed away on January 23, 2025 at the age of 67 in his hometown of Yorktown, VA.

Gary was born in Newport News, VA to Paul and Jewell Stergin. He graduated from Warwick High School in 1975. After high school, he worked as a pipefitter at NN Shipyard before attending DeVry Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA where he earned his associates degree in electronics engineering technology. Gary worked many jobs including parking cars at high rise apartments, performing HVAC maintenance, working for an oil drilling rig in Texas and doing well wire line service on oil wells in Louisiana before joining the Apprentice program at NASA in 1980 where he received his bachelor's degree. Gary enjoyed a very accomplished and rewarding career at NASA over his 40 years of service. Among his many accomplishments was an invention that earned him one of NASA's largest commendations, the Suggestion of the Year award, and the Exceptional Achievement Medal. Gary was selected as the Branch Head Aerodynamics Research Support Branch where he oversaw technicians that supported the configuration, operation and general support for multiple wind tunnels and facilities. He later managed a major revitalization project to replace old buildings with new facilities which received GOLD LEED certification for energy efficiency. Gary was a key factor in a number of changes that have forever changed the landscape of Langley Research Center.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Jane Fleshman Stergin; daughter, Emily Black (Ryan); son, Tyler Stergin (Tori); beloved grandchildren, Teagan, Maddux, and Tenley; sister, Joy Hayes (Steve), and his best friend, Harly.

Gary is remembered as being a devoted husband, outstanding father, a respected friend, skilled fisherman, and a humble disciple of Jesus Christ. He was very involved in the Church as a deacon, small group teacher, and served over 30 years as a Sunday school teacher. Gary did not waste any of his time on this earth, and although he departed too early, his legacy will remain. While we mourn his passing, we will always remember his friendly smile and witty humor which he maintained until the very end.

A memorial service will be held at Seaford Baptist Church on Saturday February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Raymond Deck officiating. Gary's family welcomes everyone to a visitation and catered lunch immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox foundation at https://www.michaeljfox.org/ .

Arrangements made by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.