Dr. Gary Lee Buterbaugh

August 1, 1945 - May 23, 2023

Facebook

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast

1604 NE Main Street

Simpsonville, SC 29681

864-688-1600 |

Friday 6/2, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast Chapel

1604 NE Main Street

Simpsonville, SC 29681

(864) 688-1600 |

Saturday 6/3, 11:00 am

Dr. Gary L. Buterbaugh, 77, of Rolling Green Village, Greenville, South Carolina, was called home to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.

He was born in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania on August 1, 1945 to Milford and Betty Buterbaugh.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved parents and is survived by sisters, Bonnie (Charles) Houser of Tyrone, Pennsylvania, and Amy (Elmer) Schulz of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Gary took great pride in his nephew, Adam (Melanie) Halsey and niece, Rebecca (Curtis) Berry, and enjoyed spending time with and spoiling his great nieces and nephew, Marissa, Dayton, Adalynn, Charlotte, Amelia, and Makenna. They will miss their “Uncle Gary” as he is irreplaceable.

Jesus Christ walked with Gary and was his best friend. Gary shared his love for his Savior everywhere he went. He supported mission work around the globe and visiting with his missionary friends was a particular joy. He traveled all over the world, lived in China for several months, and gifted his nephew and niece with overseas trips together they will never forget.

Gary’s love of music was known to all who knew him. He sang in choirs from the time he was a boy and loved singing “barbershop” with several groups. In addition to his gift of music, God blessed Gary with a talent for hospitality. He was never happier than when he could host and serve others, whether it was 2 or 200. Family, friends, and strangers were always welcome.

He was a 1963 graduate of Tyrone Area High School and a 1967 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. His graduate studies in Computer Science were completed at Syracuse University. Gary earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Education in 1993 from the University of Pittsburgh. He taught Computer Science at IUP for 30 years and served as department Chairman and President of the Senate. His IUP family was very important to him.

Family events were never complete without Gary present. His enthusiasm for life and genuine love and concern for his family will live on in the lifetime of shared memories.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast. The Celebration of Gary’s Life will take place on Saturday, June 3rd at 11:00 a.m. in the Southeast Chapel.

Family and friends who are unable to attend the service can view the Livestream by clicking on the “WATCH LIVESTREAM” button located on the main obituary page.

Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Gary with the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast

1604 NE Main Street

Simpsonville, SC 29681

864-688-1600 | Map

Friday 6/2, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast Chapel

1604 NE Main Street

Simpsonville, SC 29681

(864) 688-1600 | Map

Saturday 6/3, 11:00 am

Dr. Gary L. Buterbaugh, 77, of Rolling Green Village, Greenville, South Carolina, was called home to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. He was born in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania on August 1, 1945 to Milford and Betty Buterbaugh. Gary was preceded in death by his beloved parents and is survivedContinue Reading

See Condolences

After I finished my graduate program at Baylor in Texas, I moved to Hong Kong to teach at Hong Kong Baptist College. I went to church at the Kowloon Tong Chinese Christian & Missionary Alliance Church and that’s where I first met Gary. He was working at the time at Shenzhen University which was just across the border in China and he knew missionaries in Hong Kong who recommended the church we went to. He and I became fast friends and enjoyed ministering and fellowshipping together there, traveling as well (I’m attaching a picture of him on one of those journeys in Asia). Gary stayed in touch with so many after he returned to the States, including the pastor and pastor’s wife who later retired in Florida. Gary and I and my girlfriend visited them there together, including a trip to Disney World. Later, I did additional graduate work in New York City and Gary and I met up there a few times as well - including a Times Square visit on New Year’s Eve. I visited him at his home in Indiana, PA - and among other things, we went to an IUP football game - he loved that school. I just spoke with Gary last month, he was planning another trip to the West Coast and he was going to stay the night and visit with my wife and kids and I on August 1st (his birthday) here in Central California. He was still very vibrant and full-of-life! I recall him talking about his upcoming surgery. He was a bit apprehensive about it, but I believe more so because he wasn’t sure that it was going to work. But he felt it needed to be done and he was fully embracing it - how he did everything in life. The news from his sister caught me by surprise for sure. He did love our Lord so my sadness is temporary, knowing God’s timing is perfect. I do look forward to seeing our brother Gary again with a heavenly body…?. His life and impact have left a legacy in many, many people throughout the years. ?. Hugs and God’s blessings to you all!
attachment

Oh to the family of Dr Gary Buterbaugh We send you our heartfelt condolences on your loss of brother, uncle, nephew, cousin who he spoke of and cared about dearly. We also have immense sadness as our family loved Gary so much. He was Maggie’s first Sunday School teacher at Indiana PA. He was a longtime champion in supporting us in missions where we worked onboard a ship. While in Hong King he surprised me and visited on Doulos. He was so thrilled to have a meal at the captain table and that was his first time to meet Tom. While on furlough he always had us often to his home. He gave a dollar to the kids who could remember how to spell Buterbaugh?. I loved that he enjoyed his homes and his cars. He used to joke he’d give me one. I also enjoy cars but mainly live in a ship. Our 4 children have been so blessed by Gary in different ways. He came to CA often to visit and to our sons wedding. He peeled hundreds of carrots. In fact he planned to visit us this summer. One of the things I loved about Gary and his mission mind was that he always wanted to hear about the family more than the ministry. He said he could read as much as he wanted about that but cared more for “us”. I am going to miss our long talks. I’m saddened I didn’t make that one last call but am thrilled he is at the feet of Jesus and we will reunite again. Big Hugs from San Diego CA. Were we able I would’ve loved to be at his life celebration. Maybe one day we can meet one of you. We pray God’s loving kindness fills you up.

I met Gary for the first time in March at a Senior Lunch at Covenant Church, and I would see him from time to time during the week at the Church, and of course, on Sunday. You knew from your first conversation with Gary how much he loved Jesus. Gary lived for Jesus. He always greeted folks with a smile that could light a room, and he loved to sing. I’m going to miss that voice on Sunday. I’m going to miss his joyful, welcoming smile. I wish I had known him longer. I’m going to miss him.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Gary Buterbaugh . Plant a Tree

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Gary was instrumental in helping Patty and I launch the Cru ministry at IUP back in 1982. He loaned us his car to take students to our Fall Retreat, he shared his home and hospitality for student gatherings, he gave financially to our ministry and was a ministry partner for over 40 years, Gary prayed for us, confided in us, challenged us, pushed us and allowed us to do the same. Gary loved each of our kids well, he knew them, he gave to them, he connected with them. We grieve but not without hope. Thank you Lord Jesus for Gary and may you raise up many more like him who embodied your son Jesus.

We are deeply sorry for the family's loss of dear Gary. He was loved by many at Covenant Church in Greer. We are thankful for everything he did to help make Bella's 16th memorial birthday celebration special and for all of his kindness and prayers. He is rejoicing now with Bella in heaven! We pray that God will bless his family and friends with comfort and peace until we all are reunited with Gary once again. Thank you Gary for being a blessing to everyone who knew you. Rest in His loving peace.

We are deeply sorry for the family’s loss of dear Gary. He was loved by many at Covenant Church in Greer. We are thankful for everything he did to help make Bella’s 16th memorial birthday celebration special and for all of his kindness and prayers. He is rejoicing now with Bella in heaven! We pray that God will bless his family and friends with comfort and peace until we all are reunited with Gary once again. Thank you Gary for being a blessing to everyone who knew you. Rest in His loving peace.

Rays Of Solace Bouquet was purchased for the family of Gary Buterbaugh by Clennon and Diane Hucks. Send Flowers

I cannot imagine a world without Gary Buterbaugh! Ron & I 1st met Gary after we heard that he was offering his home for fun & fellowship to our son & other IUP freshman. As parents we thought this was quite unique for a college professor. But not for Professor Buterbaugh! His generosity extended to us too! After our 1st 4 1/2hr. drive to the college, we never stayed at a hotel, because Gary's house was always open to us! It has been a long time since those college years, and our visits with Gary were less frequent, but Gary's generosity and friendship have never wavered. He indeed had a wonderful way of intentionally maintaining friendships. And above all he was generous with his home, his time and his many talents! Our deepest sympathy to his family & many friends. We know he is now celebrating with His Savior & enjoying his part in the heavenly choir! Ron & Sharon Becker

Gary was a great friend during my days at Syracuse University in the late '60s and early '70s. We were both part of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship on campus and both were involved at Syracuse Alliance Church; my wife Donna and I always loved it when he visited us, in Bedford UK and Annapolis, Maryland. He was a great witness for his Savior, and now he is safely home. Prayers to all.

Gary was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. He was unselfish, energetic and devoted to the Lord. He loved people and people loved him. His generosity and love for his fellow man bespeak the heart of Gary.

Gary was a joy to be around and always willing to volunteer to help in any capacity needed! He made wonderful desserts and hosted our volunteer party; introduced our speakers and drove our performers. On behalf of Greenville Chautauqua, please accept our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. We share in your sadness. We miss him, too.

I find myself both grieving Gary's loss and celebrating his victory in Christ. For decades, Gary took it upon himself to care about and invest in others. This he often did quietly with little fanfare. Thankfully, our loss is heaven's gain!

Gary was an inspiration to our Christian Businessmen's group. We will miss his generosity and insights.

You were always such a joyful and faith filled man now in the arms of Jesus.

Rays Of Solace Bouquet was purchased for the family of Gary Buterbaugh by Don and Claire Hogan. Send Flowers

Gary was a great friend and loved the Lord with such joy. He served in so many capacities as a teacher, evangelist, friend. He was always ready to help in any way.

My sympathy to all who knew and loved Gary, esp. his family. He lived three doors from my husband and I and teased that, since we could see the lights in his living room, we knew everything he did. A "steady Eddie" kind of friend - always available if you had a need, sometimes recognizing a need before you did. His loving oven fed many and he could always be counted on to host gatherings for his neighbors at holidays. He could always be counted on to produce one's favorite pie or cake on one's birthday. I was pleased to be trusted with walking Gabe on occasion and looking in on him when Gary was away. I shall miss him in so many ways, but know he is where he wanted to be.

We attended the same church for many years in Indiana Pa. During one period we had experienced some times of financial problems. I am almost positive it was Gary who slipped a $20 bill into my coat pocket while it hung in the church lobby. He was very kind and caring to many. Rejoicing that he is with his Lord but will miss him here below.

My deepest sympathy to the family as Gary was a good friend and was an amazing man and friend to me. We served in the choir, the men's prayer group and Bible study together. His words of wisdom imparted to me will long be remembered. He contributed a lot to my life in the short time I got to know him and it was my pleasure whenever he was around. He will be missed, however I do know in our conversations that his faith was strong as he told me he would be ok if he met Jesus before me. What a strong statement of faith as he is now with his best friend, Jesus.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

In loving memory of Gary,, our brother in Christ.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Gary Buterbaugh . Plant a Tree

Gary was such a fun person. As a Chautauqua volunteer he could be depended upon to sign up for everything he could possibly do. I loved the story that when he moved to Greenville he signed up to be an Uber driver just to learn his way around his new residence. He chauffeured almost every Chautauqua performer in the last few years and he took such good care of them with great flair and care. Onward and upward good friend.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.