Gayland Bernard Stokes

Gayland Bernard Stokes, 66, of Sioux City, passed away on February 5, 2025. A Celebration of Life in honor of Gayland will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Minerva’s, 2945 Hamilton Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51104. The service will be officiated by Deacon Regan Banks. RSVPs and live stream link requests can be sent to GBSTOKES2025@yahoo.com. Gayland will be laid to rest at a later date alongside his parents at Logan Park Cemetery in Sioux City.

Born on February 12, 1958, he spent most of his life in Sioux City, where he cultivated a love for family, simple joys, and his community.

A man of many passions, Gayland found joy in fishing, firing up his grill for legendary BBQs, and reminiscing about his high school football days. His skill in darts earned him the title of league MVP. In addition to his interests, Gayland was recognized for his dedication to the Masonic community, being honored as Master Brother by the Iowa Decatur Lodge Masons on January 23, 2024. Above all, he will be remembered for his love for his family, his sense of humor, and the quiet strength he carried through life.

Gayland is survived by his children, Ametrea Christion (Antonius Christion) of Sioux Falls, SD, Shantal Custer (Daniel Custer) of Sioux City, IA, Kelly Coop of Sioux City, IA, and Gayland Stokes Jr. of Sioux Falls, SD. He also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren, his brother, James Gregory Sr. of Seattle, WA, and his beloved dog, Buddy, who is now being cared for in a loving home.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rozella Blackbull, and his parents, John and Lola Stokes of Sioux City, IA.