Former Union County commissioner Gary Sides dies after cancer battle

Gary Sides, a member of the Union County Board of Commissioners who announced his retirement last week, has died. He was 68.

The Board of Commissioners said Sides died after a private battle with brain cancer. He resigned from his role last week after being a member of the Board since December 2024.

“My heart breaks for the Sides family, and this is truly a sad day for Union County and all of us,” said Board of Commissioners Chair Brian Helms. “Gary’s work on the Board of Education and our Board speaks to the life he lived – a life of service. He was truly passionate about serving the people of Union County.”

A Texas native, Sides founded Marshall Insurance in 2021 and has three adopted children with his wife, Myra.

Prior to his work with the Board of Commissioners, Sides served for 10 years on the Union County Board of Education. The Board said he was known for his advocacy for students, protecting in-person graduation opportunities during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was the honor of my life to serve by Gary’s side for nine years and to call him my friend,” said Commissioner Melissa Merrell, who served alongside Sides on the Board of Education and Board of County Commissioners. “Gary served passionately and with purpose, especially for students with special needs and their parents. He fought to ensure every child received the best education possible, one uniquely matched to their learning style and God given gifts.

“Gary served with great passion because he deeply believed in standing up for what he felt was right. His legacy of service, advocacy, and friendship will stay with me forever. My thoughts and prayers are with Myra, the children, and all of the Sides family during this time of grief.”

Memorial arrangements have not been finalized. Union County flags will be at half-staff this week to honor Sides.

“It was an honor to work with Gary and to witness firsthand his unwavering commitment to the residents of this county,” County Manager Brian Matthews said. “All of us with Union County Government extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all those whose lives he touched.”