# Chasity Marie “Lolly” Gary

**September 22, 1979 – November 13, 2025**

In 1997, Chasity Gary made history as the very first African American to be crowned Queen at the Phoenixville Dogwood Pageant—a moment that foreshadowed a life defined by breaking barriers, achieving excellence, and lifting others along the way. On November 13, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with cancer, Chasity passed away peacefully at Penn Palliative Care – Chester County Hospital at the age of 46. She was diagnosed in 2020 and fought tirelessly through the end, facing her illness with the same unwavering determination that characterized every aspect of her remarkable life.

Born on September 22, 1979, in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, to Carolyn “Nip” Gary and Anthony “Plug” Gary, Chasity spent her childhood in the community that would always remain home. Her early years were filled with simple joys, including caring for the family dog, Spike, a responsibility she took seriously and lovingly. Raised in a close-knit family environment, she absorbed the values of compassion, loyalty, and dedication that would define her relationships and guide her professional calling.

After graduating from Phoenixville Area High School in 1998, Chasity embarked on an educational journey that reflected her commitment to service and excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Temple University in 2005, followed by a Masters of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice in 2007. At UPenn, she was peer-elected to serve as President of the Association of Black Social Workers, representing the Black collective of social workers on campus and at national conferences—a role she embraced with pride and purpose. Her thirst for knowledge and desire to serve led her back to school, where she earned an Associate of Science in Nursing from Delaware County Community College in 2013. Chasity became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Nurse, credentials that opened doors to a career devoted to helping veterans and others navigate life’s challenges.

For twelve years, Chasity served as a Supervisory Social Worker at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, where her dedication to veterans’ wellbeing earned her the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Challenge Coin for her outstanding contributions to the safety, efficiency, and productivity of the facility. She previously worked as a Social Worker at Southeastern Veterans’ Center for two years, always bringing empathy and expertise to those who had served their country. Her passion for helping others extended to education when she spent two years as a Guidance Counselor at Richard Allen Preparatory Charter School— where she met Dexter Gibbs, her life partner and father of her children. 

Chasity truly came into her own as a mother, a role she considered her proudest achievement. Nothing made her more proud than loving and raising her daughters, Amelia Marie Lynn and Caden Mae. They were her greatest achievements and joys, and she poured her heart into celebrating every milestone in their lives. Chasity could plan a spectacular birthday and holiday celebration. She relished any opportunity to create as many memorable and magical moments for her daughters. She enjoyed celebrating holidays and life milestones with the same meticulous attention to detail and genuine warmth that she brought to everything she did.

Chasity was civically minded, voting in every election and regularly emailing local, state, and federal legislators about matters she felt passionate about. A member of the National Association of Social Workers, she remained committed to advocacy and justice throughout her life. Her spiritual life was equally important; as a member of Bethel Baptist Church, she would pray and talk with God often, finding comfort in intercessory prayer during both joyous and challenging times.

Those who knew Chasity remember a woman who always looked impeccable. She took such pride in her appearance, especially her hair, which was always immaculate when she went out. But her beauty ran far deeper than her carefully maintained exterior. Chasity was a very private person—trustworthy, thoughtful, kind, and about business. Her ambition and dedication to getting things done made her a go-to person when you were in a jam. She was protective, loving, generous, reliable, devoted, supportive, empathetic, and conscientious. When people were around her, they felt they could trust her completely, knowing she would handle their concerns with discretion and care.

The love and care she received from her family nurtured her into the compassionate, selfless, steadfast, and sincere woman she became. She was very family oriented, and this foundation shaped how she approached every relationship in her life. Chasity modeled the best parts of motherhood, sisterhood, companionship, and friendship. She was compassionate, supportive, loyal, selfless, steadfast, and funny—qualities that endeared her to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

When she could steal away from her responsibilities, Chasity loved traveling to Jamaica, where she delighted in the weather, beaches, and food. These trips offered her a chance to recharge and reflect, surrounded by natural beauty and warmth that mirrored her own spirit.

Chasity had unwavering ambition and determination to meet and fulfill her potential. She excelled in whatever endeavor she felt worthy of her time, whether it was advocating for veterans, counseling students, raising her daughters, or simply being present for those she loved. Her life was a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, compassion, and an unshakeable commitment to making a difference.

Chasity was predeceased by her mother, Carolyn “Nip” Gary; her father, Anthony “Plug” Gary; and her older sister, Tiffany Gary.

She is survived by her life partner, Dexter Gibbs; her daughters, Amelia Marie Lynn Gibbs and Caden Mae Gibbs; her younger brother, Michael Anthony Gary; her beloved dog, Chyna of Phoenixville; and countless friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives she touched with her grace, strength, and unwavering kindness.