Gary Lee Ordiway, 78, of Fairmont, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at his second home, the Clarksburg Healthcare Center, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Born on April 29, 1947, in Hornell, New York, Gary was the son of the late Kenneth Ordiway and the late Audrey & George Dennison. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Milon Ordiway.
A proud patriot, Gary faithfully served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was also a member of the Freemasons of Taylor County. Hardworking and dedicated, Gary built a long career in the grocery industry. He began as a meat cutter for Safeway Foods in Arizona until 1973, when he returned to West Virginia to work with Thorofare in the Fairmont area. Later, Gary became Meat Manager for several Food Lion stores, where he worked until his retirement in 2015. Never one to sit still for long, he began a second career in the pipeline industry in 2016, where he continued until retiring once again in November 2023.
Gary lived life with a joyful spirit and a love for the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were his passions, and his incredible fishing reel collection could rival a museum. He cherished trips back to New York to share hunting and fishing adventures with family. At home, he found peace in feeding the birds, tending his garden, and embracing the simple joys of nature.
Gary’s love of life went far beyond the outdoors. He adored music and never missed a chance to dance—whether at a gathering or in his own living room, if the mood struck, he would show off his moves with a smile. He was a man who truly enjoyed people, making friends wherever he went. Known for his humor, Gary’s pranks and playful jokes were legendary, and his laugh—so contagious and full of life—had a way of brightening even the darkest of days.
Above all, Gary treasured his family. He loved good food, the holidays, and any chance to gather with those dearest to him. He built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Jaqueline J. Ordiway; his daughters, Terina L. Hairston (Butch) of Yuma, Arizona, Josha M. Miller (John) of Rivesville, WV, and Bryanna L. Ordiway (Carl) of Grafton, WV; his stepsons, Jimmy Nichols of Fairmont, WV, Eugene Saunders (Christie), of Fairmont, and Johnny Nichols (Melissa) of SC. He is also survived by his siblings: brothers Tom and Kevin, and sisters Tammy, Darla, Wanda, and Kelly; along with 12 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews who will all carry his memory in their hearts.
The Ordiway family extends their deepest gratitude to the loving, dedicated staff of Clarksburg Healthcare Center. For the past year, they embraced Gary as their own, filling his days with kindness, laughter, and care. The halls will forever echo with the cheerful “Woo Hoo!” of the staff and Gary’s trademark response of “Hey Buddy!”—a bond that brought joy to everyone who knew him there.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Resident Council Fund or by sending gift cards to Clarksburg Healthcare Center, 2096 Davison Run Rd., Clarksburg, WV 26301.
Family and friends will be received at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Ave., Grafton on Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 1:00PM until 8:00PM and on Monday, October 6, 2025 from 9:00AM until 10:00AM the hour of the funeral with Pastor Jimmy Johnson officiating. Full Military Honors will follow at the West Virginia National Cemetery accorded by the US Marine Corp Honor Guard and the Taylor County Honor Guard.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com. Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to care for and serve the Ordiway family.
