Dwight Edward Gist's Obituary
Dwight Edward Gist, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy not measured by wealth or recognition, but by love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Dwight was born on December 6, 1946, to Margaret and Edward Gist as the oldest of 8 children; 3 brothers and 4 sisters. Dwight naturally became someone others looked up to. He led not with loud words, but with quiet strength, humility and an example of what it means to care for those around you.
Those that knew Dwight will remember a man who didn't seek attention, but one who worked hard, loved deeply, and found happiness in the people he loved most. His legacy will live on through the family he chose, the family he raised, and the countless lives made better simply because he was a part of them.
Dwight lived a simple life and found joy in fishing, camping, and spending peaceful evenings sitting on the porch with his wife, Brenda. He enjoyed cheering on the Dallas Cowboys and loved his dogs.
He and his wife shared a love of gardening, finding peace together among the flowers and yard they nurtured. Dwight had one son of his own, but his heart was big enough for many more. When he married his wife, he embraced her 4 children as his own, never as stepchildren, but simply as family. He became Papa to his grandchildren, a name spoken with love and admiration by every generation that followed.
Dwight is lovingly survived by his siblings, his beloved wife of 42 years, Brenda Gist, affectionately known as "Baby"; his son Jon (Kim and girls) Prell, and his additional children; Michael (Mary) Shaw, Jeffrey Shaw, Laurie (Bo) Brown, and Amy (Beau) Cunningham. Papa will be missed by Cory Shaw, Jordan Shaw, Taylor Beck, Seth Shaw, Mason Shaw, Emily Brown, McKenzee Shaw, James Brown, Brooke Shaw, and Grace Shaw as well as his 11 great grandchildren. He embraced his step grandchildren, as well, Kaylin, Beau Jr., and Kortney.
He will be profoundly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday (07-02-2026) at North Fork Cemetery, Decatur, IL.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com
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