Gary L. Courtright

Gary L. Courtright, age 80, of Ashland, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at University Hospital Cleveland Medical Center. He was born in Coshocton, Ohio on August 20, 1942, the son of the late E. Oakley and Helen (Retzler) Courtright. Gary had been an Ashland resident for 62 years. He received his Undergraduate Degree from Ashland College in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. His advanced degrees were a Master’s in Education from Kent State University in 1970 and a Certificate in Educational Administration from BGSU. Gary began his career in education as a Junior High School Teacher for Ashland City Schools and later became the Superintendent at Dale Roy School & Training Center for 26 years. His favorite post retirement commitment was to the AU Board of Trustees(Emeritus); serving as Secretary for 24 years. He was also active with Park Street School Board since its founding; AU Church Board of Administration; Center Street Historic District Association. Gary was a member of the Ashland Brethren in Christ Church. Historically he enjoyed attending AU Chapel, Park Street Brethren, and being a member of the Kiwanis and the Ashland Theological Seminary Foundation. In his pastime, he loved crossword puzzles, Jeopardy, working in his yard, and Sunday School Classes.

On June 15, 1963 Gary married Janis (Riley) Courtright who survives. They celebrated their 59th Anniversary in June of this year. Also surviving are his daughter Amy (Doug) Powell of Rydal, GA.; sons, Philip Courtright of Cleveland, and Matthew (Tacy) Courtright of Ontario; grandchildren, Joshua (Kaity) Powell, Jacob Powell, Chloe Powell, Devan Courtright, Emma Courtright, and Bailey Courtright; along with his great granddaughter, Adley Powell.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Ashland University Jack & Deb Miller Chapel with Pastor Keith Tyson and Rev. David Cooksey officiating. Burial will follow at Imhoff Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family at Heyl Funeral Home on Friday, September 9, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. 

The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s memory to 'The Gary L. '64 & Janis Courtright Endowed Scholarship' at www.advancement.ashland.edu. or checks may be made to Ashland University Attn: Office of Advancement Founders Hall 401 College Ave. Ashland, Ohio 44805.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.heylfuneralhome.com.

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