Gary Leroy Belt

Gary Leroy Belt, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away with his family nearby on February 13, 2023 at the age of 79.  Gary was born in Vincennes, Indiana, and grew up in Lawrenceville, Illinois where he graduated from Lawrenceville Township High School. 

After high school, Gary joined the US Air Force, serving in Denver, Colorado and Lincoln, Nebraska working on Electrical Systems.  After an honorable discharge, Gary moved back home where he earned an associates degree in Electronics from Vincennes University.  In 1968, Gary married Linda Sparks and they lived in Fort Wayne, Indiana where their daughter Kimberly was born.  Gary was employed at Magnavox and during this time, he earned a Bachelors of Science degree from Purdue university.  Gary then worked for Shell/Texaco and retired from the plant in Convent, Louisiana.  Gary became a grandfather and greatly enjoyed spending time with his grandsons.

Gary was a loving husband and father and had a servant’s heart.  He enjoyed attending Jefferson Baptist Church where he served in various roles.  Gary worked with the youth in Bible school, participated in church sports and camping trips where he was known for his sense of humor.  Gary loved working with his daughter, teaching woodworking, robotics, and caning chairs.  Gary also enjoyed teaching youth scouting and baseball and he enjoyed playing sports.  Gary could dunk a basketball, hit a homerun, and had a never quit attitude.

Gary was survived by his wife Linda Belt, sister in law Sharon Thompson, daughter Kimberly West, son in law John West, grandchildren John Cole West and Joshua West, cousin Carolyn Fulk and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Golden Iva Belt, father, Charles D Belt, brother Charles Belt Jr, sister in law, Barbara Belt and brother in law Jim Thompson.

Visitation and funeral service will be held at Jefferson Baptist Church on Saturday, February 18, 2023 starting at 10:00am.