Obituary – Gary O. Settlemire

Gary O. Settlemire, 84, of Licking passed away September 17, 2026. Gary was born in Wasco, Calif., on November 28, 1941.

Gary married Betty Sutton on September 4, 1966; they were married for 36 years before Betty passed away. Together they had two children, Debbie and Eric. Gary married Shirley (Elledge) Sullins on September 5, 2005.

Gary owned and operated a plumbing business in Bakersfield, Calif., for many years. Gary moved from California to Licking, where he met Shirley. They lived in Florida for eight years and moved back to Missouri in 2024.

Gary enjoyed traveling to Alaska, Hawaii and Branson. He liked fishing and gardening, especially his fruit and avocado trees. Gary also enjoyed watching old movies (the Alaskan Frontier was one of his favorite themes). He had a great sense of humor.

Gary is survived by his wife, Shirley Settlemire, of Licking; daughter, Debbie Gieg (David) of Bakersfield, Calif.; stepchildren, Dianna North, of Edgar Springs, Kathy Sullins, of Springfield, Mo., David Sullins, of Bolivar, Mo., and Kelly Joehrs, of Panama City, Fla.; daughter-in-law, Frances Settlemire, of Calipatria, Calif.; four grandchildren, Emily, Kyle (Abby), Ryan, and Cole; three great-grandchildren, Amelia, Elizabeth and Thomas; three brothers, Keith Settlemire (Linda), of Lancaster, Calif., Rick Settlemire (Barbara), of Ash Flat, Ark., and Wendell Settlemire (Cheryl), of Georgia; and sister-in-law, Elaine Settlemire of Lynn, Mo.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Settlemire, and son, Eric Settlemire; brothers, Virgil Settlemire (Earlene), Willy Settlemire, Randy Settlemire; and sister, Gail Reese (Ted).

A memorial service for Gary will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Fox Funeral Home. A memorial visitation will be held for one hour prior, beginning at 1 p.m. Arrangements are entrusted to Fox Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net.