Gary Ronald Brierton

Mr. Gary Ronald Brierton, 83, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Lexington Health Care Center.

He was born on December 24, 1942, in Ogle County, Illinois to the late Melvin Richard and Thelma Kathryn Richman Brierton.

Mr. Brierton was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Mr. Brierton worked as a qualified mental health professional, where he ran group homes. He loved his work and took it seriously. Mr. Brierton was a very active member of Austin-Healey car clubs, also serving as a past president. He loved driving his car and taking road trips so his family could also enjoy the thrill of the car. At Christmas, Mr. Brierton loved playing “Santa” at group homes and schools in the area. He cherished his friends and family; and loved his dog, Clark.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Dale Brierton.

Survivors include his life partner, Wanda Freeman; her daughter, Jennifer; and her grandson, Isaiah; his children, Sara Brierton of Cary and Noah Brierton (Emily) of Belmont; a granddaughter, Vicky Brierton; a brother, Bill Brierton (Reva) of Franklin Grove, IL; a sister-in-law, Sharon Brierton of Rockford, IL; and several nieces and nephews.