Obituary of Gary Church

Gary Ferguson Church August 17, 1942 - July 18, 2013 Gary Ferguson Church was born in Smithers, West Virginia on August 17, 1942. He was raised by his grandparents, Ruby and Pete Middleton. He graduated from Clear Fork High School in West Virginia. Gary met the love of his life the former Patsy Wilson and together they would raise their four children: Scottie, Frank, DeLesia, and Tammy. The couple married on April 16, 1976 in Monroe, Michigan, although their relationship would span more than forty-four years together. Gary was employed by Ford Motor Company at the Rawsonville Plant for more than thirty-four years. He retired in 2000. Gary loved to play pool, cut grass, and golf. As a young man he had enjoyed hunting and fishing. For many years he raised beagle dogs. Gary enjoyed spending time with family and friends. His favorite place to gather with friends was at Cones and Cues. Gary enjoyed attending worship at Frenchtown Missionary Baptist Church when he was able. Gary Ferguson Church age 70 of Monroe passed away at 9:55pm, Thursday, July 18, 2013 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. After his passing he helped others by being a Gift of Life Donor. Gary's passing was preceded by a grandson: Brandon Moore; a son: Scotty Rice; two brothers: Elijah and Tilford Middleton; his grandparents: Pete and Ruby Middleton; and his mother: Pauline Church. Gary will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege to know him and to love him. To cherish his memory he leaves a loving wife: Patsy Church of Monroe; a son: Frank Rice of Monroe; two daughters: DeLesia Rice (Randy Mack) and Tammy (Chris) Drew both of Monroe; fourteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one brother: Larry (Polly) Middleton of Monroe; several nieces and nephews; and his loving bichon dog: Cassie. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 7:00pm on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will follow at 7:00pm also at Merkle's with Reverend BJ McDaniel pastor of Frenchtown Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Cremation will follow through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia. Memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to the American Kidney Foundation or the American Diabetes Association. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.