Lion Gary has served with Lions International for more than 25 years. He is currently leading the District 31-O Global Extension Team’s efforts to charter new clubs. Concurrently, he is the secretary and membership chair with his home club in Aberdeen. He previously served with three other Lions Clubs: Hamlet, Lake Waccamaw, and Richmond County Breakfast.
Hailing from Robbins, Gary is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism. He also earned an MBA from Fayetteville State University. Following graduation, Gary was a journalist for six years before moving on to public relations/marketing in healthcare and higher education. He completed his career as a fundraising professional with Boys and Girls Home of NC, retiring in 2019.
Gary is a Past Council Chair for North Carolina Lions’ MD31 (2008-09). He served as District Governor in 2005-06 and 2022-23. Gary has sponsored more than 80 members into Lions Clubs and has received extension awards for eight new Lions Clubs.
This distinguished Melvin Jones Fellow has received numerous awards from Lions International including Presidential Medals, Presidential Leadership Medals, and Presidential Certificates of Appreciation. North Carolina Lions Foundation recognitions include the NC Ambassador, NCLF Life Member, Jack Stickley Fellowship, Jack Stickley Award, William L. Woolard Partner in Service, and the Sid L. Scruggs III Beacon of Hope. From the NC VIP Fishing Tournament, Gary received the Lacy and Esther Presnell VIP Ambassador Award. In 2005, PCC Gary was named District Lion of the Year.
Gary and his wife Jill serve at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Carthage where they are on several committees. They enjoy vacationing at Oak Island Beach and sampling various seafood restaurants in the area. They are the proud parents of two adult children, three grandchildren, and one cat.