May The Force Be With You Gary
By David LaGuerre
Yesterday, I came home to heartbreaking news: my friend and colleague, Gary Acey, had passed away a few days ago. Although we were not extremely close, we shared many years working together for the Utica City School District. We attended meetings, socialized, and always helped one another when needed.
One memory that shines brightly is from a few years back during Star Wars Day celebrations on May 4th at our school. I had planned to mark the day, and Gary surprised everyone by showing up in full Kylo Ren costume, complete with a lightsaber. He visited every classroom and brought immeasurable joy to the kids simply by embracing his love for Star Wars. His actions came not from a need for recognition, but from the pleasure of sharing a moment of fun with people who cared.
The tributes I later saw on Facebook made the loss even more poignant. As I read heartfelt messages from colleagues and friends, tears streamed down my face. Memories began to intermingle with the sorrow of knowing that Gary was no longer with us. I thought back to the earlier loss of his younger brother, Rob Acey, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 42. Though our relationships were different, working with both Gary and Rob left a lasting impression on me.
Gary and I shared a special connection as older siblings. Like him, I lost a younger brother, and that experience deepened my empathy and appreciation for the bond we had. Anyone who knew Gary could attest to how deeply he loved and missed Rob. His Facebook page, filled with photos and tributes to his brother, bore testament to their unbreakable bond.
There is another memory that encapsulates the kind nature of the Acey brothers. When a mutual friend faced a serious illness and needed surgery, a fundraiser was organized to help her. Without any expectation of reward, both Gary and Rob volunteered to DJ the event. Their only motivation was to support a friend in need and to do the right thing, demonstrating their natural generosity and commitment to our community.
Gary served as an IT Coordinator and videographer for the school district, and he also operated Acey Entertainment/DJ Service, channeling his passion for technology and creativity in everything he did. Rob, his younger brother, had his own significant role as a Micro-computer Training Specialist and provided Channel 3 support for the district for nearly twenty years. Their contributions have left an enduring impact on the Utica community.
Gary passed away on March 17, 2025, in his sleep after a brief illness. He is survived by his son, Matthew, and his sister, Audra, while his parents, Tom and Mary, as well as his brother Rob, preceded him in death. His family plans to celebrate his life on what would have been his birthday, July 6, 2025.
This story is not only a way to request prayers and condolences for Gary’s family but also a way for me to cope with this tremendous loss. Writing these words allows me to express my grief and honor the life of a remarkable friend. The memories I have of Gary are a reminder of the laughter he shared and the kindness he spread throughout our community.
I welcome anyone who has a story or memory of Gary to share it with me at uticaphoenix@gmail.com. Your words, like mine, will help keep his spirit alive in all our hearts.
Rest in peace, Gary. You will be missed more than words can say.
