Gary Shanks-Hendley
Alton | Save
Gary R. Shanks-Hendley, 78, passed away Friday, September 26, 2025 at his home surrounded by family.
Born Nov. 15, 1946 in Alton, he was a son of John W. and Violet (Baker) Shanks.
A proud 9-year U.S. Army veteran, Gary served his country as a medic during the Vietnam War. Gary could do anything he put his mind to. He was a brilliant ultrasound technologist, a literal pioneer in the field, and traveled to many locations to teach ultrasound. He loved golfing with friends and had achieved the elusive hole-in-one. He was a fourth degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, loved dancing and listening to music, playing pool and bowling. He grew his beard and portrayed Santa Claus to the delight of many children, donating all proceeds to veterans’ causes.
Gary is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Cindy (Forcade) Hendley; his children, Tommy (Grace) Shanks of Tomball, TX, Tad (Jaime) Shanks of Katy, TX, Carrie (Steve) Villarreal of Enid, OK, Kelly (Aaron) Stubblefield of Wood River, and Zach (Jenn) Shanks of Godfrey; 23 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; a sister, Jonnie (Dennis) Morgan of Florida and Bob (Laurie) Watts of Cottage Hills.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Gary Randell Shanks, II; a sister, Peggy Shanks; and three brothers, Jim Shanks, George Watts, and Bill Shanks.
A Memorial visitation will be held Saturday, Oct. 4 at Paynic Home for Funerals from 10 a.m. until services begin at 12 p.m. Pastor Mike Adams will officiate.
An online guestbook is available at www.paynicfh.com.
Paynic Home for Funerals
