Gary Richard Giachelli

Gary Richard Giachelli, age 71, passed on August 21, 2023, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, surrounded by his family, and closest friends. Gary was a resilient man, who fought the good fight of faith until the Lord called him home.

Gary was born on October 30, 1951, in Leland, MS to John and Carness Giachelli. He was baptized into the Catholic faith and graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in 1970. Upon graduation, he entered the National Guard and served for six years. The first part of Gary’s career was primarily spent working in the construction business. He got married, started his family, and later moved to Clarksdale, MS where he opened his own nursery called Gary’s Garden Center. Gary was well known in his community for his “green thumb”, fun-loving personality, and willingness to always lend a helping hand. He was a creative, talented man who used his gifts to bless others through his landscaping and woodworking skills. One of his many talents was the ability to turn any word into a rhyme on a dime. Gary was known as “Papa G” among his grandchildren. He loved teaching them how to play dominos and it was always a challenge to see if anyone could beat him. Many nights were spent playing games on his iPad, watching old western movies, and even loved shedding a tear or two with a good hallmark movie.

In 2006, Gary and Debra sold their business and moved to Brandon, MS where he eventually retired. He reunited with his love for woodworking alongside his wife.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Debra Marie Giachelli, son, Gary Richard Giachelli, Jr. (Jennifer) of Hernando, MS, daughter, Kim Giachelli Truss (Rob) of Austin, TX, and five grandchildren whom he adored, Kevin Giachelli, Lauren Giachelli, Tyler Truss, Grayson Truss, and Bentley Truss, and his three siblings, Randy Giachelli of Greenville, MS, Karen Tubbs of Mize, MS, and Tami Slater of Ft. Myers, FL.

The family sends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at UMMC’s Critical Care ICU and Palliative Care team. The care and compassion shown will never be forgotten.

The visitation and celebration of life service will be held at Ott & Lee Funeral Home, Brandon, MS, on Friday, August 25, 2023. The visitation will be held from 1:00-2:30 pm followed by the service.

Gary will be remembered for his infamous storytelling and the laughter he brought to his friends and family. He will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.