Gary G. Alward, 81, of Moweaqua, died May 31, 2026 in Shelbyville Manor, Shelbyville, IL, with his family by his side.

A graveside service, with full military honors, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in Westside Cemetery, Moweaqua.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Shelbyville VFW.  We invite all who knew Gary to come share stories and memories.  Memorials may be made to the Heart Transplant Association of St. Louis or Moweaqua Fireman's Club.

Gary was born on December 10, 1944 in Decatur, IL, the son of Howard Grant and Ruth (Beery) Alward.  He married Brenda Butler on August 11, 1981 in Elko, NV.  She survives.

Gary grew up in Shelbyville, IL and graduated from Shelbyville High School in the class of 1963.  After graduation he worked at the Oliver Corporation until enlisting in the United States Army.

After returning home, Gary returned to Oliver Corporation for a time, then joined his father on the family farm in Penn Township, near Moweaqua.  Gary had many talents and hobbies.  He was a master mechanic and took pride in keeping the farm machinery operational.  He enjoyed a hobby room where together with his son, Matt, they built many model airplanes.  He was a history buff and was very well read on most of the American wars.  Gary truly enjoyed watching old westerns on TV.  Gunsmoke was a favorite.  Gary was content to spend his time on the farm living a simple life.

Surviving are his wife, Brenda; son, Matthew Grant (Kelsey) Alward of Moweaqua, IL; and brothers: Phillip Alward of Decatur, IL and Bradford Alward of Moweaqua, IL.

Preceding him in death are his parents and sister-in-law, Vicki Alward.