Gary Arthur Stroud

Gary Arthur Stroud passed away in his home on Monday, September 26, 2022, having bravely battled ALS for five years. Gary was born on August 5, 1951, in Charlotte, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Edward Stroud and Nellie Sue Leonard Stroud.

Gary graduated from South Mecklenburg High School and Western Carolina University. In 1974 he moved to Lynchburg to be the physical director at the YMCA; God’s hand was in that move, for it was at the Y that he met Diane. Gary was a devoted husband, father, and friend who was best known for his humble nature and quiet gentleness. One of his greatest passions throughout his life was physical fitness, particularly running. We know that he is again running strong in his true home. Gary was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as Deacon and Elder, delivered for Meals on Wheels, served on a mission trip to Malawi, played hand bells, and sang in the choir. Many friends in the church family recall with delight Gary’s tenor solos, especially his Advent performance of “I Wonder as I Wander.” He was often seen helping around the church in the capacity of handyman, another of his skills and passions.

Gary is survived by his wife of 46 years, Diane Terrell Stroud; his daughter and son-in-law Lindsey and Walt Winfrey and grandchildren Xander and Katherine; his son and daughter-in-law Aaron and Elizabeth Stroud and grandchildren Amelia and Luck; and his siblings Eddie Stroud (Anne) of Lilburn, GA; Claudia Dickens (Gene) of Lawrenceville, GA; and Don Stroud (Ken) of Lincolnton, NC. Among the extended family who mourns his loss are Diane’s siblings and their spouses: Ricky and Peggy Terrell, Lisa and Ed Ramsey, and Amy and Greg Pugh, all of Lynchburg; and many nieces and nephews. The family thanks the compassionate hospice team of Westminster at Home (Angela, Tabitha, and Jasmine) for their care and support of Gary and the entire family. We also thank Gary’s “running crew” for their devotion to Gary over the last year, especially Bret, Jeff, Pat, and Mike. Their bi-monthly visits kept his spirits up in a way that only friends can do.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Presbyterian Church of Lynchburg, 1215 VES Road 24503; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; or a charitable organization of your choice.

A service of celebration and remembrance of Gary’s life will take place at First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, October 8th at 11:00 a.m., with the Reverend Doctor Peter A. Thompson officiating, assisted by Gary’s brother, the Reverend Donald E. Stroud. A time to greet the family in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service.