Gary Malin

The staff of Heishman Funeral Home/Valley Funeral Service sends condolences to the family of Mr. Gary Malin. It is with heavy hearts and endless love that we share the passing of Gary Malin, who left this world peacefully on October 18, 2025 at Sentara RMH Medical Center in Virginia. Gary was born on July 26, 1966 in Takoma Park, Maryland. He graduated from Shenandoah Valley Academy, New Market, Virgina and moved to California shortly after to continue his education. Gary cherished his life, and at the heart of it all was his love for family. He was a devoted father, son, brother, and friend whose heart was as big as his smile. Gary dedicated his life to supporting and caring for the people he loved most, especially his daughters, Kayla and Brittany, and his stepsons, Rod and the late Chris. Gary was the kind of father who showed up — for every game, every milestone, and every moment in between. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, encouraging his children’s dreams, or taking his girls away to theme parks for the day which was filled with laughter and adventure, Gary made sure his kids knew how deeply they were loved. Some of his happiest memories were those joyful days spent with his daughters at theme parks, reliving those moments fondly as he reminisced about the beautiful times they shared together. He worked hard throughout his life, spending many years in the life insurance industry, always striving to provide for and protect his family. But Gary’s greatest work was not in an office — it was in the lessons he taught and the love he gave. He instilled strong morals and values in his girls early on, showing them what it meant to be compassionate, driven, resilient, and kind. About three years ago, Gary moved back to New Market, Virgina. His health had been declining and he faced tremendous health challenges, yet he met every battle with courage, determination, and unwavering strength. Surrounded by the care and devotion of his mother, sister, brother, former wife and good friends, Gary was never alone. Their visits, their love, and their presence reminded him — and everyone around him — of the powerful bonds that family creates. Gary will always be remembered for his warm personality, his humor, and his ability to make anyone feel like a friend. He loved a good joke, enjoyed spirited conversations about politics, and had a natural gift for connecting with people. To know Gary was to love him — and to laugh with him. He is survived by his loving mother, Elizabeth Malin; his sister, Cheryl Malin Thrall; his brother and sister-in-law, Glenn and Edie Malin; and his former wife, Debbie Malin. He will be forever cherished by his daughters, Kayla Malin Hernandez and her husband Julio, along with their children Andrew and Maverick Hernandez; and Brittany Malin, and her children Enzo and Alyssa Valdeverona. He is also survived by his stepson Rod Dzandzara and daughter-in-law Deidre Dzandzara. Gary was preceded in death by his stepson Chris Dzandzara, who remains lovingly remembered by his family. It’s hard to put into words how much Gary will be missed. His strength, compassion, and laughter will live forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Though his absence leaves a deep ache, there is peace in knowing that he is not suffering — and that his spirit lives on in all of us. Dad, you gave us everything you had — your time, your love, and your heart. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t think of you or miss you. A little piece of all of us went with you, but your love will always remain. – Kayla Hernandez Online condolences may be left at www.valleyfs.com Arrangements are in the care of Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.

Gary Malin

July 26, 1966 - October 18, 2025