Dr. Gary D. Mirts

Dr. Gary Dean Mirts, 83, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 surrounded by his family.

Gary was born on April 23, 1942 in Fulton, Missouri to Berniece and John David Mirts. Blessed with a wonderful childhood as the youngest of three children, he learned the values that would define his life - hard work, humility, perseverance, and service to others. Growing up on a farm in Callaway County, he attended school in a one-room schoolhouse through the eighth grade and then went on to Fulton High School. After graduating, he attended the University of Missouri, where he earned his degree In Agriculture and then went on to study Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri Veterinary School. During his junior year, a summer internship brought Gary to Louisiana where he met Betty Savant. After graduating in 1968 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Gary enlisted in the United States Army as a Captain. Soon after, Gary and Betty married, and she joined him in Savannah, Georgia at the Hunter Army Airbase.

Following his military service, Gary and Betty moved to Wisconsin, where he practiced large-animal veterinary medicine. In 1971, they moved to Shreveport, Louisiana. Gary opened his first practice in a small house on Line Avenue. As his practice grew, he moved to East Kings Highway, where he founded University Veterinary Hospital.

Gary devoted 54 years to veterinary medicine, practicing until his retirement in 2022. He was deeply committed to serving his clients and caring for their pets. His dedication, compassion, and integrity earned him the trust and respect of generations of families.

Deeply involved in his community, he was a longtime member of the Kiwanis Club and the Knights of Columbus. Gary was a devoted parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, where he proudly served as an usher. He was an officer of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association and served as president of Town South Swim and Tennis Club.

A simple, hard-working man, he touched the lives of many with his wisdom and sense of humor. Gary spent his time outdoors working in the yard and visiting with his neighbors. He was an avid reader who loved historical books. Above all, he cherished time with his family. He could not have accomplished all that he did without the love and support of his wife, Betty. In 57 years of marriage, they had four daughters whom he adored and eight grandchildren who were his pride and joy. They lovingly called him "Paw-Paw".

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Berniece and John David Mirts; his brother, Paul Mirts; and sister, Wilda Bryan. He is survived by his wife, Betty Savant Mirts; his children Wendy Mirts, Stacy Hardison (Michael), Kimberly Barrois (William), Kristine Patterson (Geoffry); his grandchildren John Michael (Jack) Hardison, Margaret Frances Hardison, Catherine Jane Hardison, Ella Claire Barrois, Camille Emery Barrois, Luke Kennedy Patterson, Leo Dean Patterson, and Audrey Mae Patterson.

Honorary pallbearers are William Barrois, Michael Hardison Jr., Geoffry Patterson, Jack Hardison, Luke Patterson, and Leo Patterson.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the doctors and nurses at Highland ICU for their compassionate care.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton St. Vincent De Paul or the donor's choice.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, officiated by the Very Reverend Monsignor Rothell Price. Reception to follow in the Burleigh Center.