Gary Lynn Garton, 85, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 20, 1940, in Lawrence County, Missouri, to John Taylor Garton and Eva (Nickel) Garton.
A proud graduate of Miller High School, Gary married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Cantrell. Together, they built a loving life in Holt, Missouri, where they raised their four children and shared fifty wonderful years of marriage.
Gary worked at Ford Motor Company for 37 years and was a proud member of UAW Local 249. Known for his strong work ethic, he balanced dedication to his job with an unwavering commitment to family, very rarely missing his children’s activities or family gatherings.
Outside of work, Gary found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time at Stockton Lake catching crappie — earning him the unofficial title of “King of Fish Fries.” He enjoyed gardening and freely shared his zinnia seeds, vibrant blooms, and his famous homemade peanut brittle with anyone lucky enough to know him. In the community, Gary was known for his warm, friendly presence — often delivering flowers, treats, and a smile to brighten someone’s day.
Gary leaves behind his children, Gary Wade (Cathy), Jeff (Betty), Rodger (Dana), and Susan (Jeff Caruthers); grandchildren, Joshua, Sarah, Tracy, JD, Kayla (Zach Farmer), Adam (Anna), and Ashlyn; and great-grandchildren, Xander, Mason, Cooper, Tinley, Quinn, Aidan, and a baby girl expected soon. He is also survived by his siblings, Glen (Mary Ann), Joyce, and John; along with many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Cantrell) Garton; his parents, Eva and John T. Garton; in-laws, Ruth and Vincent Cantrell; siblings, Lucille, Harry, Gene, Ethel, Joanna, Wren, and Jane; and many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
To celebrate Gary’s life, family and friends will gather on July 18, 2026, at the Holt Park / Legion Hall for a fish fry. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s honor may be made to the Kearney Missouri Senior Center or Harbor Hospice of Plattsburg, Missouri.
Gary loved many, and was loved by many. He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his humor, and his generous spirit that touched all who knew him.
Arrangements are in care of Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.
