Gary Winstead, affectionately known as Gary Bennett, was born on March 3, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, and passed away on September 30, 2024, in Dolton, Illinois. He was the beloved husband of Marlene Winstead, with whom he shared a deep and affectionate bond since they began dating in 1977 and married in 1993. Gary was not just a husband; he was a devoted partner who cherished the simple act of holding hands with Marlene, a testament to their enduring love.

Following in the tradition of his family, Gary accepted Christ into his life at an early age. As a proud father, Gary found immense joy and fulfillment in his children: Calandra Williams and Dr. Kevin C. Winstead, Ph.D. With stepchildren Kelli (Robert) Ross and Michael (Rita) Isom, whom he embraced as his own. He also took pride in his grandchildren, including Krystal Bailey, Shaniya Williams, E'Leena Bailey, Brandon Bailey, D'Lon Duffus, Donald Isom, Robert Ross, III, Kalob Ross, and great-granddaughter Maya Crawford. Gary's family was his pride and joy, and he often expressed that his most significant accomplishment was creating a loving family that he felt was missing, in part, from his own upbringing.

Gary graduated from John Adams High School and later attended Roosevelt University in Chicago, where he pursued his passion for technology. He worked at AT&T as a Technician and Engineer from 1968 until his retirement in 2005, leaving a legacy of excellence in his profession. Gary was a dedicated union member of the IBEW and took his role as an active voter seriously, demonstrating his commitment to his community.

Beyond work, Gary enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including golf, jazz music, history, and creating photo collages of his family, which brought him great joy. He relished the taste of peach cobbler and loved listening to music. In his leisure time, Gary enjoyed watching shows like “The Blacklist” and many programs on ESPN, always eager to engage in discussions about sports.

Gary was known for his thoughtful and caring nature, often described as measured, passionate, and funny. He had a remarkable ability to touch the lives of those around him, imparting valuable lessons in family values, resilience, and the dignity of being a Black man in America. His influence extended beyond his immediate family, as he formed lasting friendships and forged lasting impact with Black intellectuals, including those at educational institutions where his son Kevin made connections. Friends became family, cousins became brothers, and his brother was his world.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene; his brother, Glynn C. (Charlene) Wesley; and his children, eight grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Gary Winstead lived a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.