William J. Gager

William Judson Gager Therefore you too have grief now, but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. Psalms 9:9 William (Bill) Judson Gager, 75, returned home to his Lord and Savior on Saturday, December 5, 2020. He passed away peacefully at Ellen Memorial Health Care Center in Honesdale, PA. Born on December 30, 1944 to J. William (Bill) and Mavis White Gager, he was a proud, lifelong resident of Galilee. He attended church at the Galilee United Methodist Church , later becoming a member of the Damascus United Methodist Church. Bill was a lifelong member of the Unity Grange #1710 and the Equinunk Volunteer Fire Company. He was also a member of the Wayne County Pomona Grange and a volunteer with many community organizations. Bill served as a Pennsylvania State Forest Fire Warden and a Wayne County Deputy for many years. While his sons were in little league, he was the coach for the Damascus Cardinals. Bill was employed with Curtis Nurseries before becoming a Damascus Township Supervisor and Road master, after which he retired to enjoy his family, hunting, fishing, watching old western movies and sitting under the huge maple tree in his backyard singing hymns and old western theme songs. William was preceded in death by Arthur Gager (uncle), Mavis White Gager and J. William Gager (parents), David Gager (uncle), Alma Gager Hardler (aunt), Robert Gager (uncle) and Margaret Branning (godmother). William is survived by his beloved sister, Pamela R. Gager Long (companion William White), son William E. Gager (wife Pamela), daughter Melissa M. Gager Rutledge (husband Bruce) and son Joseph S. Gager (fiance Leah). Bill's whole world revolved around his children and grandchildren: Tanner Laabs, Brooke Swingle, Jessemyn Gager, Kirsten Gager, Brea Rutledge, Zachary Gager, Madison Stone, Bryce Stone Danielle Gager, Daniel Gager, Channing Rutledge and Abigail Gager. He was also the proud Papa of great- grandchildren: Jayden and Julius Peters, Theia Grano and baby Maverick Chevere due to arrive in January. He had many nieces and nephews as well as great (and great-great) nieces and nephews who made his days brighter with their visits. A master story teller and practical joker, whose laugh was contagious and hearty, he will be laid to rest with his parents in Hillcrest Cemetery in Galilee at the convenience of the family. A memorial service and celebration of life is being planned for the spring of 2021. Arrangements are being made by Jenkins-Howell Funeral Home, Inc. Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. www.JenkinsHowellFuneralHome.com Memorial donations can be made to Unity Grange #1710 or Equinunk Volunteer Fire Company.