Gary Lee Box

  Gary Lee Box, beloved Poopaw, Dad, brother, and father figure to many, passed away peacefully at home on December 20, 2025, after ongoing health issues.

 Gary was born in Anson, Texas, to Buddy Box and Dorothy McGraw. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work, dedication, and family - principles that guided him throughout his life.

 While attending Abilene High School, Gary met the love of his life, Gail Garrett. They were married on March 24, 1961, beginning a marriage that spanned decades until Gail’s passing in 2021. Together, they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and family.

 Gary worked as a pipefitter, and after their marriage, he and Gail traveled across Texas wherever work took them before settling in Hurst, Texas, where they made their home and raised their children, Jami and Clifford. In 1984, Gary opened his own mechanical contracting business, Box Mechanical, which continues to thrive today. Through his business, Gary made many lifelong friends and was always willing to help a fellow contractor. His children were his pride and joy, and he devoted himself to providing them with unwavering love, support, and every opportunity to grow into the people they are today.

 After moving to Bedford, Texas, Gary became a volunteer firefighter, joining the department before Bedford even had a paid fire service. He proudly served his community for more than 30 years, witnessing the growth of both the fire department and the city. His dedication to service ignited his son Clifford’s passion for firefighting, creating a lasting family legacy.

 Gary’s greatest joy was his family. He spent countless evenings and weekends traveling across Texas to attend every event his grandchildren were part of - cheerleading, sports, livestock shows, and more. If they had something going on, Gary was there without fail - and he was always early.

 When his great-grandchildren came along, Gary’s heart only grew bigger. He was even more giving, more joyful, and endlessly excited to have them around. His face lit up whenever Abigail, Andie Kate, or Tatum was in the room.

 To those who didn’t know him well, Gary could sometimes come across as hard as nails. But that exterior always came from a place of love. In truth, beneath it all, Gary was a teddy bear—soft-hearted, loyal, and deeply devoted to the people he loved.

 When Gail passed away in 2021, Gary lost his soulmate. He spoke of her often and longed to be reunited with her, while still wanting to remain here for his friends and family. On December 20, we know there was a joyful reunion in Heaven, and we find comfort in knowing Gary is now watching over the legacy he left behind here on Earth.

 Gary was preceded in death by his grandparents; his parents, Buddy Box and Dorothy McGraw; his sisters, Linda Lang, Bonnie Thomas, and Nancy Rouse; and his beloved wife, Gail Box.

 Gary is survived by his children, Jami Crow and husband Mark, and Clifford Box and wife Lori; his grandchildren, Kendra Robbins and husband Ben, Shelbie Zamarron and husband Cody, Taylor Ervine and husband Kurt, Kennedy Box, Levi Sokoloski and wife Lacie, Luke Crow and wife Tessa, and Brittany Strahan and husband David; and his great-grandchildren, Abigail Robbins, Andie Kate Ervine, and Tatum Zamarron, Eddie, Wyatt, Elijah, and Elliot Strahan. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Martin and husband Joe; his mother-in-law, Loretta Garrett; and a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

 Gary valued family, service, and showing up for the people he loved. His life was one of dedication, reliability, and deep, enduring love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

 A time of visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, December 28, 2025, and the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 29, both at the Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, 913 North Elm Street, Weatherford, Texas 76086. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens of the Valley, 5600 Mineral Wells Hwy., Weatherford, Texas. 

https://www.galbreaithpickard.com/