Garry Walter Waters, 81, of Quincy, Illinois, passed away at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy.

He was born on January 11, 1945, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Herbert A. Waters and Thelma A. (Whitney) Waters.

Garry graduated from Quincy High School in 1963 and later served his country in the United States Navy. Following high school, he moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he worked as a truck driver for Time DC, Southwest Bell Telephone, and McDonnell Douglas.

On June 28, 1986, he was united in marriage to Carole (Banks) Dhom at St. Francis Catholic Church in Quincy, Illinois. And She survives.

Garry dedicated many years of service to the City of Quincy, working in the Water Department and later in wastewater. He also worked with Quincy Transit, where he drove a city bus for many years. He retired in 2001. During his time with Quincy Transit, Garry was known for his kindness and compassion, especially his involvement in helping families through meal programs.

He had a deep passion for cars, especially drag racing his 1974 Corvette. He raced at tracks in Wentzville and Havana and spent countless hours at the machine shop. One of his prized projects was his 1955 Chevy. Garry loved traveling, including trips to Sacramento and train excursions that brought him great joy.

He is survived by his wife, Carole Waters of Quincy; his children, Daniel J. Dhom of Jackson, Missouri, Scott (Vicky) Waters of Los Angeles, California, and Steve (Paige) Waters of Kenwood, Texas; his grandchildren, Leslie Marie Dhom of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Jagger Waters of Los Angeles, California, and Joaquinn Waters of Los Angeles, California; his brother, Terry (Debbie) Waters of Liberty, Illinois; and his sister, Janet (Elvis) Proctor of Clarksville, Tennessee; sister-in-law, Terry (Dave) Ashley of Cave Creek, Arizona; brothers-in-law Roger Dale Banks of Boise, Idaho, Danny Lee, and Randy Brackett of Newton, Illinois; as well as many close friends, including Donnie Mayfield, Gene Horton, Rodney Godbey, Gordon Moore and Carol Miller.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Garry will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his love of racing and cars, and the kindness he showed to others throughout his life.

In accordance with Garry’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and no formal services are scheduled at this time. The care arrangements have been entrusted to J. Otto Funeral Home in Mendon.