Barry Lee Gartside, a proud veteran of the USAF, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Jan. 14, 2026, at the age of 79.
The son of the late Walter Glenn Gartside and Joyce Marlene Gartside, Barry Lee Gartside grew up in Chambersburg, PA, and was born on Nov. 2, 1946, at Chambersburg Hospital. At the age of 18, he graduated from CASHS and enlisted in the USAF. He was a devoted husband, always highly valued his service, and attained the rank of Master Sergeant (lovingly acquiring the nickname, “Sarge,” by his wife and some others).
As part of his service, he received the Meritorious Service Medal, the USAF Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, the USAF Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four oak leaf clusters, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the USAF Outstanding Unit Award with one oak leaf cluster, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the USAF Good Conduct Medal with five oak leaf clusters. Barry retired honorably in August 1985 after serving almost 21 years in the USAF Power Generation Sector. He worked for various companies in civilian life and retired from Volvo Penta of North America.
Barry is survived by his mother, Joyce Marlene Gartside (99 years old); wife of 33 years, Paula E. (Lane) Gartside; children, Matthew, Amy, Natalie, and Zachary Gartside; step-son, Josh Lane; brother, Thomas Gartside (Julie); aunt and cousins; nine grandchildren; three nephews; two nieces; great-granddaughter; great-nephew; two great-nieces, and other family members.
His loved ones will fondly remember him with a unique and fun personality, at times a little crude, mixed with a bit of craziness, a deep and hearty laugh, a man who enjoyed fishing, boating, hunting, cooking wild game, traveling adventures, all animals, joking with his kids and others, games, and a man of faith.
He will be laid to rest during a private ceremony, with the date to be determined, in spring 2026 at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled Veterans of America or Tunnel to Towers for Wounded Warriors.
