Gary Lounsberry, 81, passed away on Tuesday in Hornell following a lengthy illness.
Dr. Lounsberry was born in Wellsville to Alton and Corabelle Lounsberry. He graduated in 1962 from Scio Central School as valedictorian and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of Rochester, a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work, both from the University of Pittsburgh.
In addition to Chere, his wife of 52 years, Gary is survived by two daughters, Sarah and Abby; one brother, Daniel (Terry) Lounsberry of Scio; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Gary devoted his career to public service. He served in the United States Public Health Service for 26 years, including in the Indian Health Service and later focusing on migrant health in different areas of the United States. After retiring, he pursued a second career in higher education, first as a founding faculty member in Social Work at Florida Gulf Coast University and later as a Professor of Human Services at Alfred State College.
Gary was a voracious reader on a wide range of topics and also enjoyed gardening and traveling. He enjoyed meeting new people and experiencing new locations and visited every state in the United States except Hawaii.
Gary was an active member of the National Association of Social Workers, American Public Health Association, the Commissioned Officers Association, and was a member of the Episcopal Church.
There will be no prior visitation. The funeral service will be held on Saturday (September 13) at 2:30 p.m. at Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio with Rev. Carol Stewart officiating. Full military honors will be rendered at the funeral home and burial will follow at Fairlawn Cemetery in Scio. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Gary’s name may be made to Scio Fairlawn Cemetery. © 2025 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
