Gary T. Vance

Gary T. Vance, 81, of Wilmington, Ohio passed away Monday, May 15, 2023 at Clinton Memorial Hospital.  His wife, Mary Kay McMillan Vance, survives.  They were married March 25, 2000.  He was born July 17, 1941 in Clarksville, Ohio, son of the late Wilbur L. Vance and Barbara S. Thompson Vance.  He was a 1959 graduate of Wilmington High School and a graduate of Wilmington College.

Mr. Vance was a high school science, chemistry, and physics teacher for 13 years at Wilmington High School and 2 years at Laurel Oaks. Gary paused his teaching career for 7 years to manage White’s Foundry in Hillsboro for his father, who was the company owner. Gary returned to teaching at Clinton Massie High School for 10 years and retired after 25 years in the classroom.

After his retirement, Gary managed the Elks 797 Golf Course for several years. An avid golfer, Gary played on the Wilmington College golf team that won the 1964 NAIA District Championship and would go on to place ninth in the National NAIA Golf Tournament.  He would later win 9 championships at Snow Hill Country Club.  His passion for golf helped form many lasting friendships and he was happiest with a golf club in his hand.

Gary was most proud of his children and grandchildren. He loved cooking for his family and was passionate about creating innovative games for all the family occasions.

In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by two children, Tracy M. Nuss of Sidney, Ohio and Greg T. Vance of Midland, Ohio; a sister, Cheryl Beil of Loveland, Ohio; six grandchildren, Katie (Anthony Gillem) Nuss, Carrie Nuss, Abby Nuss, Nick Nuss, Tabby (Blake Bronson) Vance, and Garrett T. Vance; as well as several nieces and a nephew. 

In addition to his parents, a sister, Debbie Paul, preceded him in death.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 – 5:00 PM, Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio.  Interment at Sugar Grove Cemetery in Wilmington will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to contribute to a charity of your choice in Gary’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary T. Vance, please visit our floral store.