Gary Barentine

Gary Wayne Barentine, 75, of Edmond Oklahoma, passed away on June 19, 2025. While our hearts are breaking at the immense hole his passing leaves, he is rejoicing in the presence of his Savior. We are devastatingly sad, but I guarantee you he is having the absolute best time.

Born on April 21, 1950, Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was one of a kind. He was serious when needed but he loved a good joke and to make people feel welcome and at home. He was incredibly generous whether it be with his time, finances, home, or friendship. He was a firm believer that the Lord blessed him with what he had in order to bless others and instilled that belief in his children.

He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life. After returning home, Gary dedicated 36 years to CITGO Oil and Petroleum, where he was respected for his integrity, dependability, and strong work ethic.

Gary wasn't always one to follow the rules, but that trait is where some of the best stories from his life come from. He was a sponsor at church camp several times over the years. The kids adored him and the other adult sponsors tolerated his shenanigans. Most recently, he served faithfully in his church as part of the security team, making sure everyone felt safe, seen, and welcomed. He also gave all the kids way more donuts than their parents probably approved of. His generous heart, warm sense of humor, and unwavering reliability touched countless lives.

Gary had a massive heart attack and quadruple bypass at the age of 39. He counted each day he woke up after that as a blessing and lived his life as a reflection of that blessing. He loved the Lord, his family, and his community. He often said he was "living on borrowed time" and he wanted to be sure that the time the Lord had given him was spent well and spent blessing others.

He was deeply devoted to his family. Gary cherished his wife, Gayla, whom he often called the most beautiful woman in the world. He was in awe of her beauty, strength, love for the Lord and others, and how she made a house a home. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and found great joy in watching them grow. He always wanted to make sure they knew how much he loved them.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Okal Barentine; his mother, Rose Barentine; and his brother, Jimmy Barentine.

He is survived by his wife Gayla; his sister Sharon Barnes and her husband Rick; his son Michael Scott Barentine and his wife Lisa; and his daughter Lyndsey Braisher and her husband Jeremy. He was a loving grandfather to Jack, Hayden, Abigail, Barrett, and Evelyn, and step-grandfather to Alex. He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, and cousins, all of whom he loved dearly.

Gary's life was marked by unwavering faith, steadfast love, selfless service, heartfelt laughter, and deep humility. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. The hole left in his absence will be felt for a long time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oak Hills Church Youth Fund.