FELTS MILLS – Gary L. Deskins, 80, died Sunday afternoon, February 18, 2024 at his home under the care of his family and Jefferson County Hospice.

Gary was born on February 21, 1943 in Watertown, the son of the late Clyde and Ruth (McCallops) Deskins. He went to school in Felts Mills, Black River and graduated from Carthage High School, class of 1962. He married Joanne M. Taylor on September 21, 1963 at St. James Church with Rev. Peter R. Riani officiating. He joined the National Guard and served nine years and was honorably discharged. He worked at St. Regis Paper Mill and retired from Champion International as a machine tender after 35 years.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne, their four children, Gary L. (Carol) Deskins, Jr. of Johnson City, TN; David M. (Julie) Deskins of Brownville; Steven C. (Tammy) Deskins of Richmond, IN; and Janet White of Carthage; Grandpa "Boss" leaves five grandchildren, Benjamin (Lauren) Deskins, Cole White, Ryan Deskins, Nathan Zelasko, Logan Zelasko, and his great granddaughter, Quinn Deskins.

Gary is predeceased by his brother, Kenneth Deskins, sister, Connie Deskins.

Gary was a communicant of St. Paul's Church in Black River, he was a member of Carthage Elks Lodge #1762, Black River American Legion Post #673, Watertown Eagles Club Aerie 782, Richmond, IN Moose Lodge #167. He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, the outdoors and playing cards with the grandchildren.

Calling hours will be Thursday, February 22 from 4-6:00pm at the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home in Carthage.

A Funeral Service will be on Friday, February 23rd, at 11:00am at the funeral home with Rev. Todd E. Thibault, Pastor, of St. James Church officiating. Spring burial will be in Felts Mills Cemetery.

On-line condolence of sympathy may be made to: www.Bezanillafh.com