Gary L.

Jayne

Gary L. Jayne (Pop), age 91, of South Bethany, DE, formerly of Annapolis, MD, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in the comfort of his own home.

Gary was born in Westhampton Beach, NY, on May 16, 1935, son of the late Millard C. Jayne and Edna (Gordon) Jayne. Following his graduation from SUNY Maritime College at Fort Schuyler, Bronx, NY with a bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering, Gary began his professional career as a naval architect with the federal government. After many years of service, he took early retirement and continued his career in the private sector with Avondale Shipyards before eventually retiring.

In 2000, Gary and his wife, Barbara made South Bethany their home, where he quickly became an active and involved member of the community. His interest in local government and dedication to his new hometown led him to serve as Mayor of South Bethany for six years, 2004 – 2010. Gary took great pride in serving his community and contributing to the town he and his family called home.

Gary also enjoyed spending time working alongside his son and daughter-in-law at their business, Jayne's Reliable in Dagsboro, DE. He especially enjoyed painting and refinishing furniture. A lifelong coin collector, Gary took great pleasure in his hobby and enjoyed adding to his collection throughout the years. Gary and Barbara also enjoyed spending winters in Marathon, FL, where they made many wonderful memories together. Mom and Pop especially enjoyed watching the sunset at Sunset Beach in Key Colony with many friends, who called themselves the “Sunset Singers”. Barbara and Gary brought this tradition to Marathon after being inspired by the sunset celebration at Fager’s Island.

Although Gary had many interests and accomplishments throughout his life, nothing meant more to him than his family, especially the Annual Jayne Family Beach Week. Surrounded by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and family friends, Jayne Beach Week became a beloved, anticipated yearly event. Oftentimes with more than 40 family and friends joining in the week long activities. He treasured the time his family spent together and the many memories they created over the years. Whether enjoying everyday moments or special family gatherings, being surrounded by those he loved brought him his greatest happiness. His love and devotion to his family will forever be remembered.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara H. Jayne, in 2022; his son, Matthew Paul Jayne in 2020; and three brothers and their wives.

Gary leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory, including his four children, Thomas Jayne and his wife, Makia, David Jayne and his wife, Karen, Teresa Brant and her husband, Phil and Daniel Jayne and his wife, Lisa; eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; his brother-in-law Carl Hansen and his wife, Kris and his sister-in-law Elizabeth Hansen.

A visitation will be held from 10 to 11 AM on (DATE) at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, DE 19970. A prayer service will begin at 11 AM. Internment will follow at Millville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Gary's memory to South Coastal Village Volunteers, P.O. Box 1453, Bethany Beach, DE 19930