Gary Joe Lawhead

Gary Joe Lawhead, 72, of Robinson, IL, passed away on February 12, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent in Evansville, IN. Born on September 2, 1952, in Palestine, IL, Gary lived life with an open heart, hardworking hands, and an unstoppable love for his family, friends, and the little things that made life sweet.

Having spent most of his life in Oblong, IL, it was here that Gary learned the value of hard work early on, mowing lawns as a boy before spending years at the Oblong IGA, where he did just about everything. Later, he worked at L.S. Heath, climbing from production into the role of Sanitation Foreman until his retirement. Fittingly, Gary also collected Heath memorabilia—a nod to the time and effort he poured into the place that shaped much of his career. He cleaned churches on the side and was the kind of guy who could never sit still for long, always finding ways to stay busy.

In his younger years, Gary loved to run, often racing in local and regional marathons. As time went on, he could be found walking his dog, Rufus, with whom he shared countless adventures and a deep, unconditional bond. Later in life, he found joy in nurturing his creative side in the kitchen. Salads, desserts, and baked goods like banana bread and muffins were among his specialties, which filled his home with warm, inviting aromas. Another smell that frequently permeated his kitchen was that of his beloved flavored “fufu” coffee. He made a fresh pot each morning and wasn’t above mixing it with something unexpected in the afternoon. His family never had to wonder what to get him for Christmas—flavored coffee was always a safe bet.

An avid antique hunter, Gary had a special eye for treasures at flea markets and auctions, picking up everything from Crawford County school yearbooks to a collection of yardsticks. His love for gardening extended beyond vegetables and produce—he was known for his sunflower beds at his apartment complex and tended to a variety of plants, including a prized money tree and aloe vera.

However, more than anything, Gary loved people. He never met a stranger, striking up conversations wherever he went. Family gatherings were sacred, and nothing brought him more joy than spending time with those he loved. One of the greatest highlights of Gary’s life was a trip to Hawaii with his daughter, Kim, and his former wife. While the island’s beauty captivated him—the sunsets, the beaches, the endless ocean breeze—it was sharing the experience with his family that made it truly special. Every moment spent exploring the island together became a cherished memory, and long after the trip ended, he loved retelling the stories, his face lighting up at the thought of it all.

In the same way, Gary’s memory will continue to light up the faces of those who loved him. His kindness, his humor, and his unmistakable presence will live on in the stories we tell, the plants we nurture, and the joy we find in life’s little treasures. Gary truly was one of a kind, and his legacy will forever be a part of those who were lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his children, Kim & husband Doug Marsh (Loxley, AL) and Jason Lawhead (Robinson, IL); his sisters & brothers-in-law, Pam & Dean Aten (Chickamauga, GA), Diane & Tim Smith (Robinson, IL), and Linda & Jack Boswell (Darwin, IL); his sister-in-law, Brenda Lawhead (VA); as well as several nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Allen & Eva Mae (Benson) Lawhead, and by his brothers, Tony Lawhead and Jeff “Sparky” Lawhead.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 21st, at Oak Grove Cemetery, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Crawford County Humane Society in memory of Gary's beloved dog, Rufus. Envelopes will be available at the cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.