Gary L Gelvin Sr.

Gary L. Gelvin Sr. was born October 6, 1942 on the family farm near Glade, Kansas, son of Larry Edward and Betty (Martin) Gelvin. His family moved to Danville, before settling in Harper, Kansas. As a child he worked at a chicken farm and at the bowling alley as a pinsetter.

He married Melanie K. Miller and this union was blessed with three children: Gary Jr., Cynthia, and Teresa. The family made their home in Wichita where Gary worked at Coleman.

He later married Anna Frances Bailes, who helped raise Gary’s children, and they made their home in Spivey. The family experienced great loss when Anna passed away in a car accident.

Throughout his adult life, Gary worked for Nichols Water Service and Oller’s Incorporated. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagle’s in Wichita, Kansas. He also enjoyed his side business, providing DJ services.

When his health began to fail, Gary moved into the Anthony Community Care Center in Anthony, Kansas. He passed away on August 3, 2026 at the age of 83. He was preceded in death by his parents; the mother of his children, Melanie; his wife, Anna F. Gelvin; and his brother, Larry Gelvin Jr.

Gary will be deeply missed by his children: Gary Gelvin Jr. and wife, Denise, Cynthia A. Gelvin, and Teresa Page; brothers, Doyle (Diane) Gelvin and Jim (Doris) Gelvin; 5 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Harper Cemetery in Harper, Kansas with Pastor Tom Walters officiating.

Memorials in memory of Gary may be made directly payable to Country Care Hospice or the Anthony Community Care Center and may be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 602 E. Main St., Anthony, KS 67003.