Obituary of Gary Allen Gilkison

Gary Allen Gilkison, 68, husband of Gloria McDaniel Gilkison, passed away Thursday, November 9, 2023, at home after a battle with lung cancer. He was born in Lexington, KY, on June 14, 1955, to the late Marie Parker and James Owen Gilkison. Mr. Gilkison was a Glen's Creek Baptist Church member in Versailles for over 50 years and had ended his working career in Woodford County as a jailer.  

Besides his wife, Gloria, of 48 years, those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Gretchen (Bill) Caine, Genna Mattox; sisters, Wanda Brooks, Shirley Logdon; brother, Tom (Carol) Gilkison; grandchildren, Mason Mattox, Abigail Caine, Alyssa Mattox, Cooper Caine, and Jamie Garmany.  

Gary was dedicated to Woodford Countians and keeping his community safe. His journey with law enforcement began in 1977 in the Woodford County Police Department, and he became elected as the Woodford County jailer in 1994. After retirement, he continued to work in law enforcement at the Franklin County Sheriff's Department until 2018.  

Gary was a talented, self-taught musician who loved country and gospel music. He also enjoyed fishing and spending time on his houseboat. He also loved his grandchildren and never said no to them.   

Visitation will be Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 5-8pm at Clark Funeral Home, Versailles with a Masonic Rite beginning at 5 pm. The funeral service on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 10:30am, graveside service immediately following the funeral at 12 pm, Sunset Memorial Gardens. Serving as casket bearers are Ron Wyatt, Myles Buhlig, Loren "Squirrel" Carl, Bill Eckler, Mason Mattox, and George Atwood. Honorary casket bearers are members of law enforcement, first responders, and musicians that Gary was blessed to call friends and the remaining grandchildren.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his church, Glen's Creek Baptist, Versailles, KY.