Major Gary Merhl Neights Sr. (Usmc Ret.)

Maj. Gary M. Neights, Sr. (USMC Ret.), passed away into eternal rest on April 13, 2021 in Fishersville, VA. Born April 21, 1936 in Williamsport, son of the late Cloyd and Flossie (Lynch) Neights.

Gary proudly served in the USMC for 29 years. He served stateside during the Korean War as an aviation ordnance technician, the Cuban Missile Crisis in photographic intelligence, and later in Vietnam where he led troops in combat as a Commanding Officer. Gary was a math and science teacher for Central Bucks School District and finished his career working for the PA Department of Education as a coordinator of instruction and media services for the State-wide Intermediate Unit system. Along with his wife, in retirement he sponsored international families at the U.S. Army War College. Gary enjoyed woodworking, skiing, white water rafting, ocean cruises, and photography. He was an Eagle Scout and also active in the Boy Scouts of America as an adult.

Gary is survived by his wife of 62 ½ years, Emma B. (Beierle) Neights, Carlisle; children Elaine M. Farrell, Wyomissing; Gary M. Neights Jr. and wife, Dr. Jennifer Hahn, Audubon; Paul D. Neights, Clarksville, TN and Michael A. Neights, Guatamala City, Guatamala; grandchildren Jeff and Jason Farrell, Eliza and Olivia Neights and Andrew and Aidan Neights; great-grandchildren Emma, Adam and Ethan Farrell and nephew, Jeff (Vanessa) Huff, Hughesville, PA.

Gary was preceded in death by his sister, Leitha Huff and daughter-in-law, Trish Creegan (wife of Mike).

At Gary’s request, viewing will be private. A memorial service will be held at a later date and following a reception and celebration, his ashes will be transported to one of his favorite places, the Youghiogheny River, to be scattered at Rivers End Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Chapel Pointe 770 S. Hanover Street Carlisle, PA 17013.