On Monday, October 30, 2023, Gary Hines slipped from his earthly bondage to the waiting arms of his savior Jesus Christ. Gary relied greatly on his faith throughout his life. He was born and raised in Kinston. He was proud of his hometown and participated in many events and organizations that promoted historical events in Lenoir County. He was an active member of the CSS Neuse II Gunboat Foundation which promotes a living history museum on a full-size replica of a Confederate ironclad. He also was past commander of the CSS Ram Neuse SCV camp which he valued as a great opportunity to promote history through education. Gary’s love of history first started over 50 years ago when he joined the Lenoir Braves in the North South Skirmish Association which shoots Civil War period weapons in competition.

Gary valued his community service through the Richard Caswell Masonic Lodge where he served in many roles including past grand master and currently as treasurer.

Gary’s love and dedication to family is what he was most proud of in his life. He dedicated his life to taking care of his first wife Venita Ruth Barrow who was stricken early in adult life with multiple sclerosis. He spent countless hours at her bedside seeing to her every need until her passing in 2001. He remarried Betty Barwick in 2007 and they made many happy memories traveling and enjoying each other’s company. He loved to be surrounded by family and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Venita, his father, Ivey Hines, and his stepfather, David Ingles. He is survived by his wife, Betty of the home, son Gary Steven Hines, Jr. and daughter-in-law Lauren G. Hines; granddaughters Caroline, and Emily Hines, all of Orlando, Fl; mother, Melba Ingles; sisters, Jackie Seymour and Connie Ferguson and brother, Alan Hines. Also surviving stepchildren include Yogi and Celia Barwick and children of Benson; Ray and Mindy Moore and children of Winterville; Jonathan and Mary Beth Hicks of Raleigh.

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Tanglewood Church on Rouse Rd, Kinston. Visitation will be held from 10am-11am with funeral following at the church. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations be made to the CSS Neuse II Foundation, PO Box 251, Kinston, NC 28502-0251.