Corey Noles photo Capps showing one of his bowed psalteries during a 2006 visit to his shop near Aquilla.

Well-known throughout Southeast Missouri, Capps left his mark on individuals and communities all around. Whether it be building the stringed instruments he so enjoyed or working to help local communities make their projects come to life, Capps' life had a positive effect on the lives of many.

Gary has also served on the board of the Stars & Stripes Museum/Library, the Bootheel Tourism Committee, Stoddard County Development Foundation, the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission, the Stars and Stripes Byway Committee and numerous other boards over the years.

A skilled luthier, Capps was known for his fondness and talent at building stringed instruments. Maypop Music, the name he gave to his instruments because of the maypops that grow all around his shop, is located in an old barn that used to belong to his grandfather. Gary moved the barn to his home some years ago from its original location and has since used it as a shop where he could pursue his many hobbies.

A devoted father and husband, Gary leaves behind his wife, Barbara, and one son, Ben, who have both stood by his side during the battle with cancer that eventually took his life.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been released.