Gary Wayne "Mac" McAlpin

Gary Wayne "Mac" McAlpin, beloved son, brother, and friend, entered his heavenly home on Friday, August 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with Leukemia.

He was born on June 4, 1956, the son of the late Wayne Bernell and Barbara Nell Willis McAlpin, Gary’s life was one marked by steadfast resilience, unwavering love for his family, and a quiet strength that touched all who knew him. He passed peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by those who cherished him.

Throughout his 70 years, Gary was admired for his warm heart, sense of humor, and deep sense of devotion to his loved ones. He forged lasting connections and provided steadfast support—his impact deeply felt by all fortunate enough to walk beside him.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force joining after high school and served for over twenty years before retirement. During his military career he received or was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal w/ two devices, the Air Force Commendation Medal w/ two devices, the Air Force Training Ribbon, the Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, the National Defense service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, the NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon w/ one device, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon w/ one device, the Outstanding Unit Award w/ one device, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/ five devices.

He was very passionate about his faith and treasured his membership at Lighthouse Church of Jackson, where he had served on the security team and was honored to serve as the Building and Grounds facilitator for a number of years.

He is survived by his devoted sister, Dawn Davis, and her husband, James; his beloved brother, Jimmy McAlpin; and a host of nieces and nephews. Also cherishing his memory are members of his family in love, Gary Jones and wife Cindy; their children Cherie Bault and husband David; Delicia Schrupp; and Gayra Hall and husband Ryan; and their grandchildren, Judah, Levi, Kenan Bault; Ava Claire and Nolan Schrupp; and Evan, Anson and Adelyn Hall as well as a host of individuals that he considered family. The depth of loss felt by his family is immense, a true reflection of Gary’s central role in their lives.

Along with his parents, Mac was preceded in death by his siblings Charlotte, Michael, Brian and Kenneth.

Gary’s long and courageous fight with leukemia inspired admiration and respect in all who witnessed his journey. Throughout his illness, he demonstrated profound courage, maintaining hope and compassion, offering comfort to others even in his own struggle.

SERVICES: A time with family and friends to honor Mac's life will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Arrington Funeral Directors. A funeral service celebrating Gary’s life will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors, with Pastor Donald Lance, Gary Jones, and Isiah Johnson. Gary will be laid to rest at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 693 Wildersville Road, Wildersville, TN 38388, with a burial at 1:30 p.m.

Those who knew Gary Wayne "Mac" McAlpin will remember him as a man who met every joy and hardship with grace, who freely shared his heart, and whose legacy of love and courage will continue to shape the lives of all who loved him. His memory will live on in each story told, each lesson learned, and every life he touched along the way.