Gary Keith McAlister, 52, of Knoxville, passed away suddenly Thursday morning June 25, 2009, at his home.

Gary was a faithful member of West Park Baptist Church and member of Heritage ABF. He was an employee of TEC.

He was preceded in death by his father Irvin H. McAlister; and by his father-in-law John Noah Purdy, Jr.

Gary is survived by his wife of 25 years Nancy Purdy McAlister; his daughter and son-in-law,  Rebecca and John Rutter of Chattanooga; one grandchild he was excitedly expecting in January 2010;  his mother, Eleanor McAlister; his brothers, Gregg and Chris McAlister; his sister, Pat Kegley, all of Knoxville; his mother-in-law Janice H. Purdy of Loudon; by his sister-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and by many friends, including special friends Tommy and Cindy Cook.  

The family will receive friends from 4 to 5:45 p.m. Saturday, June 27 with funeral services to follow at 6 p.m. at West Park Baptist Church with Pastor Sam Polson and Tommy Cook officiating. Family and friends will gather at 3 p.m. Sunday at Steekee Cemetery in Loudon for graveside services.

Honorary Pallbearers will be the men of Heritage Class. Memorials may be made to Thru the Bible Radio Network, PO Box 7100, Pasadena, CA 91109-7100.

Click Funeral Home Hardin Valley Chapel is serving the McAlister family. www.clickfuneralhome.com.