Gary Lee Shirley died peacefully at home the morning of January 3, 2026.  He was 89 years old.

Gary was a lifelong resident of Brighton, New York.  He graduated from Brighton High School (Class of 1954) and SUNY Brockport (Class of 1987).  He was a long-time employee of the Town of Brighton. 

Gary met his wife, Diane, in the Peace Corps in 1962.  He was an avid outdoorsman and spent many summers on Grindstone Island, Clayton, NY, where his family had a seasonal home.  His multiple hobbies included wood-working, reading, creative writing and history.  Gary was greatly loved and appreciated by family and friends for his generosity, storytelling, and sense of humor. 

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Diane (Bartosik) Shirley; daughter, Lori Ann Shirley; son, Jeffrey Lee Shirley; daughter-in-law Leah Shirley; and grandson, Daniel Lee Shirley.

A celebration of life will be planned for the future.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Genesee Valley Land Trust, 45 Prince Street, Rochester, NY 14607.