Billy James Gary, 74, of New Haven, entered eternal rest on October 11, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Sheila L. Gary.

Born in New Haven, CT, on March 2, 1951, he was the son of the late Walter Jones and Jessie Gary and raised by his stepfather, Daniel Barnes, Sr.

Before his retirement, Mr. Gary was employed as an orderly at the Yale Psychiatric Institute. A devoted man of faith, he was a dedicated member of Grace Worship Center Church in Hartford, where he served faithfully as a Deacon. For 15 years, he also ministered through Faith Temple Revival Center Church's Prison Ministry at the York Correctional Facility.

In addition to his wife, he leaves to cherish his memory his stepchildren, Antwuan Jones and Shenyka Jones; siblings, Daniel Barnes, Jr., Reggie Barnes, Patrick Barnes (Yolanda), Frances Gary, Dorothy Johnson (Richard), Jessie Jackson (Kenny), Barbara Barnes, Felicia Barnes, and Patricia Barnes; five grandchildren; four bonus grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, Bobby Barnes.

A celebration of Mr. Gary's life will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Grace Worship Center Church, 750 Wethersfield Ave., Hartford. Family and friends may view at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Beaverdale Memorial Park, 90 Pine Rock Ave., New Haven.