Gary Lynn Ferrel

Gary Lynn Ferrel, age 67, of Lawrence, Kansas, entered eternal rest on December 29, 2025, surrounded by the peace of his home. He was born on August 15, 1958, in Butler, Bates County, Missouri, to Paul Edwin Ferrel and Helen Ruth Thomas Ferrel.

Gary was blessed with a gentle spirit and a gifted heart. Music was the language of his soul, and as a talented percussionist, he found rhythm in the world around him. Whether playing traditional instruments or creating sound from everyday objects, Gary believed music was meant to bring joy, connection, and healing. Through his music, he lifted spirits and reminded others to listen closely—to sound, to nature, and to one another.

Gary graduated from Butler High School in 1976 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Missouri–Kansas City Conservatory of Music. He continued his studies at the University of North Texas, where he served as a Teaching Assistant in the renowned jazz program and composed original works for percussion ensembles and modern dance. Early in his career, Gary toured throughout the southern United States with the band Goodfoot and was honored to perform at South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas.

Later in life, Gary found fulfillment in steady, meaningful work as a facility engineer for student housing at the University of Kansas, continuing to serve others with humility and dedication until his retirement.

Above all else, Gary loved God’s creation. He found deep peace in nature, often choosing stillness and listening over words. His sacred place was the Ferrel family land in Butler, Missouri—a place of quiet reflection where he felt closest to God, to family, and to himself.

Gary leaves behind a legacy of love through his children: daughters Matisse Ferrel-Phrawon of Cairo, Egypt, and Isabella Ferrel of Abilene, Texas; sons Henry Ferrel of Abilene, Texas, Ezra Ferrel of Dallas, Texas, Wyatt Obediah Ferrel of Honolulu, Hawaii, and Bryan Ferrel of Butler, Missouri; his stepson, Micah Maxwell of Denton, Texas; and his cherished grandchildren, Makario Phrawon, Kai Ferrel and step grandson Ryan Maxwell. He is also survived by his brother, LTC (Ret.) Paul Allen Ferrel of Bulverde, Texas, and his loving partner, Jana Jorn of Lawrence, Kansas.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Edwin Ferrel and Helen Ruth Ferrel, of Butler, Missouri.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Those who wish to honor Gary’s memory are encouraged to do so through music, kindness, and moments of quiet reflection—listening for the beauty God placed in the world.