Gary P. Hufford, a man full of energy who loved life and made everyone smile, has joined his partner, George, in heaven. He was known to many in Lancaster, PA, as a friend, a restaurateur, and one of the best bartenders.

He left us suddenly on Thursday, December 12, 2024, without pain or suffering. He was 72 years old and could do cartwheels around 32 years olds. He was born in Wilmington, DE, on March 28, 1952, the son of the late Sherwood Leroy and Emilie May (Peirson) Sr.

Gary was preceded in death by his partner, George F. Centini, Jr. Together, they founded several well-known restaurants in Lancaster, PA, including The Loft, Tally Ho, Molly's Pub, and Character's Pub. They also owned a Bed & Breakfast named Lofty Acres in Wakefield, PA.

Gary was naturally gifted at entertaining, cooking, and gardening. His love for hosting and entertaining created both lifelong and one-time memories for thousands of customers and friends. He always remembered his internship at Longwood Gardens, where he learned the beauty of the outdoors at a young age, particularly gardening, potting, and adding fun and decorative garnishes to drinks during his 50-plus years as a bartender. He took his role seriously as the gardener at The Steeple House for over 20 years.

Gary's positive attitude, relentless energy, sense of humor, smile, and presence improved every party. In addition to being your favorite private bartender for the past 16 years, he most recently helped Joe Hess at Cracked Pepper.

Many of his friends will remember him fondly. He is survived by a brother, Sherwood L. Hufford, Jr., husband of Merle, of Galena, MD; two nephews, Stephen A. Hufford, husband of Melissa, of Galena, MD; and Vernon "Dean" Hufford, husband of Janet, of Elkton, MD; three great nieces, Jaime Hufford, Cassidy Marcon, Rylee Hufford, and a great nephew Austin Hufford; and a sister-in-law, Elsie Hufford.

In true Gary fashion, all are invited to a casual drop-in gathering on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1:00 PM—4:00 PM at the Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584. Gary's wish was that there be no funeral service, so we will gather to remember, share memories and honor a great man and his life with family and friends.

In honor of Gary's love for flowers and gardening, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Longwood Gardens PO BOX 501 Kennett Square, PA 19348 or online at https://longwoodgardens.org/support/honor-and-memorial-gifts