Gary Thomas Medlin of Roanoke Rapids, NC, beloved husband, father, coach, and triathlete passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on January 22, 2021 after a long battle with cancer.  He was 60.

Gary was a graduate of Roanoke Rapids High School and North Carolina Wesleyan College. He took pride in coaching soccer for many years. He enjoyed many years of traveling with dear friends on Harley adventures. 

He was a member of Roseneath Hunting Club. 

He became an elite Ironman athlete later in life and completed eight full distance Ironman events across the US and Canada. 

He loved the sport and created a triathlon event in the Roanoke Valley which introduced many to the love of swimming, biking, and running. Gary was also a member of the Roanoke Valley cycling club.

Gary leaves behind a legacy of a loving family:  his wife Lori; his amazing children Wright, Magen, Mira and Garison; his brother Ken (Lisa), his sisters Carolyn Medlin and Trisha Christensen (Steven); his step-mother Tivie Medlin and his step-brother James Humphries and his wife, Renee’; his brother-in-law Bill Hand, his in-laws the Robinson family.  

He will be missed by his faithful companions, Brixx and Cooper.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Louise Medlin, his Sister Judy Hand and his brother Donnie Medlin (Erlah).

Gary taught us all his life to set goals and work hard.  He dedicated his races to his family and friends, especially those struggling.  He would want us to remember that this earthly race is not for a temporary crown, but for an eternal one.  He fought the good fight and kept the faith.  We will all hold him close in our hearts and he will remain there until we meet again.

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday January 27, 2021 at 2 PM at Victory Baptist Church with Pastor Jeremy Kobernat officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids

The family will receive friends at the cemetery at the Committal.

Please wear your mask and Social distance during the Service and visiting with the family.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations if you wish can be made to the Medlin Children College Fund, c/o Lori Medlin P.O. Box 727 Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870