Gary L. Carr, 79, passed peacefully at home in Bonita Springs, Florida, on March 27, 2026, after a battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. His wife and family were by his side.
Gary was born in Decatur, Illinois, the son of Larry and Wanda (McCoy) Carr, who preceded him in death. Gary and Judy were married June 5, 1966, at the First Christian Church in Blue Mound. They would have celebrated 60 years of marriage this year.
Gary was always a hard worker. He worked at PPG, Firestone, Caterpillar, and Macon Metals. He also owned C&M Fence Company and Illini Metal Works. In his last ten years, he enjoyed working as a shuttle driver for Germain Toyota in Naples, Florida.
Gary was a 1964 graduate of Blue Mound High School. He enlisted in the Army National Guard on the day President Kennedy was assassinated and served for six years. The American flag flew at his home everyday.
Gary became a Mason on December 10, 1976, and had been a Shriner since 1978. He was also a member of Moose Lodge 1454 in Bonita Springs, Florida.
Gary loved people, and everyone was drawn to his big smile and even bigger personality. He was always quick with a joke or a kind word, making everyone in the room feel included. Gary’s goal was to make a new friend every day—and he usually succeeded.
Gary loved Cardinals baseball, as well as Illini and Purdue football and basketball. He enjoyed traveling with Judy, golfing, motorcycling, and boating on Lake Shelbyville and Lake of the Ozarks.
In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his son, Jason Carr.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Carr of Bonita Springs; daughter, Noelle (Randy) Prince of Blue Mound; brother, Randy (Sandy) Carr of Yukon, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Patrick Carr, Tanner Bourisaw, Courtney (Ashton) Scott, and Trey Bourisaw; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 27, at the Blue Mound Civic Center in Blue Mound, Illinois, beginning at 2:00 PM. Gary will be laid to rest at Hall Cemetery in Blue Mound, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Blue Mound Masonic Lodge #682, 215 W. Niles St., Blue Mound, IL 62513.
Everyone who met Gary was better for the experience. His big heart for service to his family, community, and country cannot be overstated. His unique way with words made a lasting impact on every life he touched. He never met a stranger and will be greatly missed by all.
McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
