Gary “Spook” Gifford

Gary Gifford, 57, better known as, Spook, of Endwell, NY, passed away on March 17, 2017 at Wilson Memorial Hospital. He was born November 24, 1959 in Sidney, NY, was the son of the late Dick Gifford and Audrey C. Eberhardt, and forever the “little brother” to Steve Gifford and Denise Smith. By age one, he had a head of curly hair, an impish grin, and the nickname “Spook” for his ability to disappear in a blink of an eye. Gary graduated from Deposit Central School. He would then embark on a lifetime of work, and work was his claim to fame. With full credit always given to his mom and dad, Spook had a work ethic that made him stand out on any crew, in any yard or on any union job. Gary’s first job was on the family farm, then at Beaver Mountain Log Homes. He worked in the stone quarry, the yard at MBI in California, and lastly, he gave his all as a laborer for Alliance Masonry, Local #785. In his younger days, Spook played outstanding high school basketball and continued afterwards in several basketball leagues, where once again, his drive made him a standout. His other passion was the racing world. He worked with Kenny & Todd Titus #9, making many friends and acquaintances at area dirt tracks. To the frustration and sadness of his brother-in-law, he was an eternal New York Giants fan. Gary is survived by his dedicated wife of 20 years, Jennie (Swartwout) Gifford of Endwell, his mother, Audrey (Bill) Eberhardt of Northumberland, PA, children, Jesse (Marcie) Gifford of Sidney, Jessica Gifford of Downsville, and step-daughter Melissa Swartwout of Endwell. He is also survived by six grandchildren, each one a source of pride: Dylan, Mariah, Jesslyn, Sable, Samantha, and Jonah. He also leaves his sister, Denise (Rick) Smith of Deposit, and brother, Stephen (Pam) Gifford of Escalon, CA and his grandmother, Grace Gifford, of Unadilla. His family included many aunts, uncles, and cousins, all with their own unique memories of Spook. The family welcomes you to a Celebration of Life and luncheon to be held Saturday, March 25 at the Park Terrace Community United Methodist Church (hall) at 30 Glann Road, Apalachin, NY starting at 12 noon. In honor of Gary’s big-hearted love of animals, memorial donations may be made to S.P.E.A.K, at 351 Flint Rd, Binghamton, NY 13905.