Gary Willets Vail

August 30, 1960
– August 25, 2024

A memorial service will be held at a later date for Gary Willets Vail, 63, who passed away on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at Lafayette General Medical Center.
Gary was born in Crowley to Milton Vail Jr. and Bernice Bennett.
During his adolescent years, he had the privilege of traveling with his father, who served in the Army. While stationed in Germany, he played on the 1975 soccer team for Bad Kreuznach American High School, Germany.
Upon returning to the states, he attended Crowley High prior to graduating New Iberia Senior High in 1977. After graduating, he enlisted with the Louisiana National Guard, then went on to serve many years with the Crowley Police Department.
Ahead of retiring, he worked multiple years in the petroleum trucking industry, known to many as ‘Coyote.’ Several lasting friendships and memories were forged throughout his careers.
Gary enjoyed baking home-made bread and boudin, canvas painting, computer gaming, caring for his beloved dogs — Lil Bit and Ringo — spending time and talking with family.
He is survived by his children, Colleen (Todd) Abshire, Daphne Marie Vail, Jenna (Keenon) Leger, Aaron Dean Vail; grandchildren, Cade (Kitana) Abshire, Kajen, Kasen and Kanon Leger; great-grandchild, Mileena Abshire; half-sisters, Pamela Harvey, Alice (Billy) Breaux, Sara (James) Guillebeau; step-sister, Kathleen Guidry; half-brother, Steve Harvey; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Milton Vail Jr. and Bernice Bennett Swarthout; step-parents, William Swarthout and Earline Simon Vail; half-brother, Milton Vail III; and half-sister, Vicky Vail Ohlenforst.
The family sincerely thanks Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center’s ICU staff for their kindness, support and compassionate care given.