Gary Lee Anderson, Sr.

Gary Lee Anderson, Sr. of Jacksonville, FL, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday morning, May 21, 2024. He was born in Waterloo, IA on April 16, 1947.  Gary graduated from Boys Town Nebraska in 1965.   Gary proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1966-1991. Gary had a decorated career as a USN Chief Petty officer who served in Vietnam, Beirut, and Desert Storm. After his Naval career, Gary proudly joined what he considered his second family at Commander Southeast Region (NAS Jacksonville) until his retirement.

He married the love of his life Annamaria on April 17, 1971, in Naples, Italy.  Gary was a loving husband and unwaveringly devoted father and grandfather. He and Annamaria completely dedicated their lives to the wellbeing of their family. His sacrifices ensured his children and grandchildren every possible opportunity. Gary was a devoted Catholic, member of the St. Paul’s Catholic Church parish, and Knights of Columbus Council 5535. In addition to being an avid reader, Gary’s hobbies included gardening, bird watching, fishing, traveling, and cooking.

Family members include his wife of 53 years, Annamaria Criscuolo Anderson; sons, Francesco A.J. Anderson (Amelia), Gary L. Anderson, Jr. (Maria) and Peter P. Anderson (Trisha); sisters, Carol Hammons (Kenneth) and Donna Smith (Wayne L. - deceased); and 6 grandchildren (Richard, Gary III, Francesca, Victoria, Stella, and Antonio). 

He is preceded in death by his mother, Viola Anna Etringer Anderson, and father, Arthur Carlyle Anderson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 3, 2024 in St. Paul’s Catholic Church, followed immediately by a reception in the Family Life Center. A committal service is scheduled at Jacksonville National Cemetery for 2:30 following the Mass and reception. All are invited.