Gary GaMaille Barnes, 87, a longtime resident of Oak Park, died peacefully in his sleep on March 14, 2024, after several years of declining health and vascular dementia. Born on Nov. 23, 1936, he was a standout at Monticello (IL) High School and went on to play college basketball at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where he studied philosophy. He later earned a Master of Divinity degree from Yale and a master’s degree in Social Work.
Gary loved working on his home on Humphrey Avenue, restoring antiques, and woodworking. He enjoyed jazz music, camping and hiking, and staying active whether it was tennis, volleyball league, or riding his bike around town.
He was not a fan of technology and was not shy to share his view on that subject and a few other topics as well. His stubbornness to adapt was a part of his charm. In fact, he labored for 10 years hand-writing a book on the detriment of technology to society. Sadly, it was never published. It would have been an interesting read.
Known for his smile, his laugh and sense of humor, and his staunch, passionate positions, he was keenly interested and involved in politics, was an active member of the Oak Park community and an avid sports fan rooting for the Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks, Illini, and OPRF Huskies.
Gary was the father of Rachel Barnes Pledger; grandfather of Scott Thomas Pledger and Rebecca Anne Pledger; son of the late CW Barnes and the late Roby Gregory Barnes; brother of Gregory (Yoko) Barnes; and uncle of Stephen Barnes and Roby Barnes.
In keeping with his wishes, Gary will be cremated and interred at the Bement Township Cemetery alongside his parents at a later date.
A memorial at his beloved Allerton Park, near his hometown of Monticello, Illinois is also planned.
Arrangements were handled by Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home.