Gary “Meatball” Nehls, 59, of Morgantown, passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025. He was born March 22, 1966, in Waynesburg, to the late Arthur and Emma Nehls.
Known for his big heart and even bigger laugh, Gary, affectionately called Meatball, was the kind of person who brought energy and humor wherever he went.
He shared his life with his longtime partner, Tammy Salisbury, and was a proud stepfather to Jane Whitelock. His stepgranddaughter, Laurelei, or “LaLa,” was the light of his life.
Gary grew up with his siblings, Jeff Nehls, John Lemley, Renee Rowan, Kitty Friend, and Regina O’Brien.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Richard Lemley, but held his family close throughout his life.
A self-employed contractor, Gary took pride in his work and was never afraid to get his hands dirty. He had a strong work ethic and a sharp sense of humor often joking that his boss never gave him a day off.
He loved skiing, softball, NASCAR, and cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, but he was happiest spending time with LaLa or hanging out with his beloved dog, Bruce, who rarely left his side and may have been his favorite companion of all.
A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, July 21, in Fred Jenkins Funeral Home in Morgantown.
In accordance with Gary’s wishes, he will be cremated. Those arrangements have been entrusted to Fred Jenkins Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at 123 Pleasant Street, where friends and family are invited to come together, share stories, and celebrate Gary’s life the way he lived it – loud, full of laughter, and surrounded by people he loved.
Condolences at www.fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
