John Gary Headrick, 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Liberty Hospital, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born on June 20, 1944, to John Henry and Maxine (Black) Headrick, Gary grew up on the family farm at St. Charles, Iowa. After graduating from I35 High School in 1962, he worked on the farm along side of family, cousins and friends harvesting. Gary owned and operated a local Mobil gas station and carwash. He also worked for the local school district as a school bus driver. He later spent many years on the road as a truck driver with Teamsters Local 41, hauling cars for Allied Systems with many other drivers who became life long friends.

Gary’s life changed for the better in 1982 when he met the love of his life Beverly Inman at Bamie’s Pizza in Des Moines. They became inseparable companions, marrying on May 29, 1993, and moving to Kansas City the following year. Together, they enjoyed forty-four wonderful years, including peaceful winters spent as "snowbirds" at Tampa East RV Park, Dover Florida making many cherished friends.

Gary was known for his humble nature and his remarkable ability to fix just about anything. Whether it was repairing an engine or helping a neighbor with their home projects, he was always the first to offer his time and skill. He never asked for recognition; he simply cared for those around him with a huge heart and quiet strength and a little onery streak.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Beverly; his children, Kim Mingles (Bill), Kelly Smith, Michael Smith (Laura), Jeffery Inman (Diane), Mike Inman, and Roxanne Luciani (Tom); and his sisters, Joyce Small (John) and Janet Miller and many nephews. He was a proud and loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and he will be deeply missed by the many friends and neighbors who were special to him.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date. He was a truly special man who lived simply, loved deeply, and left the world a little better than he found it.

Gary will always live in the hearts he left behind.  He was a very special man.