Gary W. Custis

Captain Gary W. Custis, USMC (Ret.) passed away peacefully at home on January 28, 2026 surrounded by his loving family after a very long battle with cancer.  Captain Custis was a decorated veteran who served in the United States Air Force for 10 years and the United States Marine Corps of 11 years.

Gary was born in Florence, Arizona to Donald L. and Sandra (Wiseman) Custis.  At the age of 5, Gary moved with his Mom and Sister to California where he spent most of his growing up years playing baseball and football, lettering in both sports.  During his senior year, he moved with his Mom and step-dad, (Darrell Batten) to Medford, Oregon and then to Lewes, Delaware, where he graduated from Cape Henlopen High School.  He decided to join the military after graduation and was stationed in numerous places around the United States and globally.  Captain Custis served two tours in Desert Storm, serving our Country.  Captain Custis retired from the United States Marine Corps in 2000.  His most rewarding assignment was as Commanding Officer of Echo Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines, Camp Lejune, NC.

Once Gary retired, he earned his Executive MBA in project management and had a successful career in the Pharmaceutical Industry.  He worked for many companies, until he started his own consulting business.  

Before retiring from the USMC, Gary met the love of his life, Karen Custis with whom he spent 24 years of marriage.  Together, they enjoyed traveling, golfing, spending time with family, watching the Eagles and going to the Phillies games where they were lucky enough to go to game 4 of the World Series in 2008.

Gary was predeceased by his father, Donald L. Custis; mother, Sandra J. Wiseman; sister, Tina McNamer.  He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Custis; sons, Justin Custis (Natalie), Jeffrey Custis (Siyana), Jason Griffith (Christine), Mikey Boris; brothers, Michael Kendrick, Terry Harvell; sisters, Deanna Heet (Paul), Teresa Brown and Brenda Kislow; grandchildren, Kody German, Hanna Custis, Gavin Griffith, Nevena Custis, Chelsea Custis and Jaxon Custis.   Also survived by many nieces and nephews.  Gary is also survived by his loving dogs, Chance, Chooch, Forrest Gump and his four legged soulmate, Bubba.

A viewing will be from 6:00PM until 8:00PM on Monday, February 9, 2026 at the LONGWOOD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION of MATTHEW GENEREUX, 913 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square.  A viewing will be from 10:00AM until 11:00AM with a funeral service at 11:00AM on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER, 125 Saginaw Road, New London Township, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary's name may be made to Christian Life Center or VFW Post 5892, 7620 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707.

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