Gary Lee Letchworth

Gary Lee Letchworth, 73, passed away at Good Shepherd Hospice in Lakeland on Thursday, March 16, 2023. Gary was born on December 12, 1949 to parents Elmer and Reba Letchworth in Lakeland, and has remained a lifelong resident of the Lakeland/Kathleen area. Gary grew up playing baseball, starting at a young age in Little League and continuing to play as shortstop all the way through high school. Gary graduated from Kathleen High School in 1967 and joined the US National Guard the following year in June 1968 where he served on active duty for 2 years, then another 4 years in the reserves from 1970-1974. He was employed at Sunbeam Bakery for 22 years and was self-employed for another 10 years before working as maintenance supervisor for Florida Presbyterian Homes prior to retiring in 2012 at the age of 63. He was a member of Northside Assembly of God. Gary married Janie S. Green on October 5, 1987 and they enjoyed 35 years of marriage together with their children and grandchildren. Gary loved to fish, especially with his dad, brothers, and cousin. He collected coins and had a wonderful sense of humor. He liked to play cornhole, drag racing, and Gun Smoke. Gary was able to Richard Petty’s racecar in the Richard Petty Experience one year, and that was one of the highlights of his life. He was a fan of the Tampa Bay Bucs, Tampa Bay Rays, and Lakeland Flying Tigers. Most of all, Gary enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Gary is preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Reba Letchworth; brother Terry Letchworth; and sister Paula Ann Letchworth. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Janie S. Letchworth; children Bruce (Shelly) Letchworth, Brian (Lesly) Chambers; and Brandi Chambers; brother David (Rhonda) Letchworth; cousin and lifelong friend Alfred Letchworth; sister in law Jewel Letchworth; grandchildren Bobby, Ashley, Tiffany, Lindsey, Lucas, Brianna, Briana, and Caroline; great grandchildren Landon, Sevi, Maverick, and Kenslei; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family. There will be no services at this time. Family has requested that memorial contributions be made in Gary’s name to the Global Down Syndrome Foundation.

Gary Lee Letchworth

December 12, 1949 - March 16, 2023