Gary Odell Vinson

Gary Odell Vinson, age 87, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, in Canton, Ohio. He was born on October 6, 1939, in Texas.

Gary lived a life marked by service, hard work, and a warm sense of humor. He served in the United States Air Force, and while stationed overseas in Germany, he met the love of his life, Ursula Vinson. Their meeting began a devoted partnership that led Ursula to move to the United States, where they started their family together.

By trade, Gary was a welder, a profession that reflected his steady and hardworking nature. He was also a proud Mason and a dedicated member of C.A. Fortner Lodge #1304. He was accepted into the lodge on September 25, 1975, and was raised on October 23, 197 5. His longstanding commitment to the lodge remained an important part of his life through the years.

Those who knew Gary will remember his playful spirit and his gift for storytelling. He was known for spinning tales that were sometimes entirely made up, teasing family and friends with jokes and stories shared simply for fun and to bring out a laugh or surprised reaction. That lighthearted nature left a lasting impression on the many people who spent time with him.

Gary is survived by his children, daughter Anna Schiavone of Carrollton, Ohio, daughter Rae Dean Vinson of Channelview, Texas, and son Clifton Vinson of Carrollton, Ohio. He also leaves behind Anna’s children, Amber Deal Schiavone (TraceyScott) Christopher (Dannielle) Schiavone. Theresa (Chelsea (Vansteenberg) and Victoria Schiavone as well as Clifton's, Wife Janet and children Justin Riggs, Meranda (Jeffery) Baptiste, Christina Vinson, (Trisha Scott) and Jacob Vinson.

Also, he leaves behind his sister, Olivia (Roger) Owen of Texas and brother Glen (Patsy) Vinson of Arkansas and many other relatives

His memory will also be cherished by his great-grandchildren, Micha Deal, Isabelle Deal, Trace Scott, Dallas Stone, Rilee, Kyla, and Lanyne Schneider Tommy Cartright and Christian Conrad and Colton Schiavone. He will be remembered with love by all who were part of his family circle.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ursula Vinson; his daughter, Peggy Vinson; his granddaughter, Michelle Schiavone; his mother, Dorothy Elizabeth Lawson(Cloise Lawson) his father, Gilbert (Nita) Vinson; his brother, Rylee Tasco Vinson; and his son-in-law, David Paul Schiavone.

Gary's wishes were to be cremated, and his family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.

Gary Odell Vinson will be remembered for his service to his country, his years of skilled work, his faithful Masonic membership, and the laughter he brought to those around him. His life touched his family and friends in lasting ways, and his memory will be carried forward with love.

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