McWilliams, Gary L., 77, loving husband, father and grandfather of Paden City, WV went peacefully into his Savior's hands on Friday, January 6, 2012 at Wheeling Hospital in the presence of his family.

He was born May 28, 1934, the son of the late Christena T. McWilliams and Lawrence McWilliams both of Paden City. Gary was a veteran of the United States Army having been stationed in Paris, France and Ocean City, MD. He was a Protestant by faith an active member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Paden City. He retired from Conalco (Ormet) Rolling Mill.

Gary was a member of the first graduating class (1952) of Paden City High School and remained loyal to his alma mater and a strong supporter of it and it's students. He was active in many facets of his community including his church, local civic groups, band patrons and scouting. He was very involved in preserving his town's schools and was a recipient of the Paden City Alumni Assoc. Distinguished Alumni Award in 2010. One of his greatest loves was the history of his town and Gary was a founding member of the Paden City Museum and Cultural Center where he also served as a Building Committee Chairperson and volunteer guide for several years. He was an avid Wildcat, Mountaineer, Steelers and Pirates fan.

In addition to his parents, his was preceded in death by two infant sisters, Peggy and Patsy.

Survivors including his wife of fifty-five years, Ruby J. Baker McWilliams; daughter, Debbie (Neil) of Paden City; sons, Scott (Pete) of Columbus, OH and Rodney of Paden City and Parkersburg; brother, Larry also of Paden City; two loving grandsons, Evan and Luca who journeyed from Guatemala to bring love and joy to Gary and his family.

Friends received 3-8 p.m., Sunday, January 8, 2012 at the Jarvis-Williams Funeral Homes in Paden City where services will be held 1 p.m., Monday, January 9, 2012 with Rev. Norman Butler and Pastor Judy Vetter co-officiating.

Interment will be held at Pierpoint Cemetery, Alma, WV.

Memorial contributions may be made to Paden City Museum and Cultural Center, P.O. Box 23, Paden City, WV 26159.