Effingham, Illinois - Gary Neil Washburn, age 77, of Effingham, Illinois passed away, Sunday, February 22, 2026, in his home, surrounded by loved ones.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Pagel Funeral Home, Edgewood, Illinois with visitation one prior to the start of service. Richard Artis will be officiating. Burial will take place in the Edgewood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Pagel Funeral Home, Edgewood, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the donor's choice.

Gary was born October 11, 1948, in Paris, Illinois, the son of Gerald N. Washburn and Gilberta "Madge" (Thompson) Washburn. He married Margaret Webster on November 3, 1997, in Effingham, Illinois. Gary enjoyed collecting and shooting guns, camping, and spending time with family and friends. He was a member of the NRA and Effingham County Sportsman's Club. He retired after 35 years of employment at the Newton Power Plant.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Washburn of Effingham, Illinois; children, Tammie (husband, Kelly) Line of Effingham, Illinois; Shawn (wife, Crystal) Washburn of Martinsville, Illinois; Brian (wife, Amy) Washburn of Martinsville, Illinois; Kelli Washburn of Georgetown, Illinois; and Anthony (wife, Lathie) Washburn of Elgin, Illinois; brothers: Leon Washburn of Tolono, Illinois; and David (wife, Regina) Washburn of Martinsville, Illinois; grandchildren, Jessica Wolfert, Devin Wolfert, Kody Line, Kage Line, Bryant Washburn, Blaine Washburn, Shawna Lowe, Payne Washburn, Storm Washburn, Naomi Washburn, Ruby Washburn, and Jude Washburn; 9-great-grandchildren, stepchildren, former stepchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded by his parents, Gerald and Madge Washburn.