Gary Mordecai Gist, 76, of James Island, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026.
Born on July 26, 1949, in Finksburg, Maryland, Gary was the son of the late Richard and Ruth Gist. From an early age, he demonstrated a deep love for learning, leadership, and athletics. He attended and played football at Gardner-Webb College and Towson State College and later earned his master’s degree from The Citadel.
Gary devoted his life to education, coaching, and shaping young people. From 1973 to 1978, he served as Assistant Football Coach and Head Baseball Coach at Fort Johnson High School. He went on to coach as Defensive Assistant at Newberry College from 1979 to 1982. From 1985 to 1993, Gary was the Head Football Coach at James Island High School, where he left a lasting mark on the program and its players. He later continued his service to students and staff as Assistant Principal at James Island High School from 1994 until his retirement in 2007.
James Island was more than a place to Gary-it was home. He loved the community, James Island High School, sports, and most of all, his family and friends. A natural teacher and mentor, Gary “taught lessons” wherever he went, instilling pride, character, and integrity in countless young people. To many, he was not only a coach or administrator, but a father figure whose influence will be felt for generations.
Gary was a longtime member of Harbor View Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and faithfully participated on numerous committees. He dedicated many hours to supporting local food banks, building residential ramps for those in need, and sharing fellowship at the church’s men’s breakfasts-one of his favorite gatherings.
In 1968, Gary met the love of his life, Brenda Albea, beginning a beautiful 52-year marriage filled with love, joy, and compassion. Together, they raised two daughters, Shelby Bayne and Valerie Ann. His greatest joy was becoming “Pap Pap” to his beloved granddaughter, Amelia Bayne.
Gary is also survived by his brothers, Marvin Gist and David Gist, both of Maryland; his brother- and sister-in-law, Hayes and Jennifer Albea of Etowah, North Carolina; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Ruth Gist; his sister, Debbie; his brother, Daniel; and his parents-in-law, Cliff and Phyllis Collins.
A funeral service will be held on January 19 at 1:00 p.m. at Harbor View Presbyterian Church, with a reception immediately following. A Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the James Island Yacht Club.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gary’s memory to James Island Charter High School or Harbor View Presbyterian Church.
Coach Gist lived a life of purpose, service, leadership, and love. His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the family and community he cherished.