Gary I. Nordyke

Gary I Nordyke, age 76, passed from this life into the arms of Jesus at 2:53 AM on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
Gary was born on August 20, 1948, in Phoenix, Arizona, the only child of Rex and Vada (Smothers) Nordyke. He spent his childhood in Glendale and Peoria, where he developed a strong work ethic, a deep sense of loyalty, and a quiet wit that stayed with him throughout life. He graduated from Peoria High School in 1966 and went onto proudly serve his country in the United States Army serving in Germany during the Vietnam War. Gary married Katherine Jean (Andrews) Davis February 11th, 1988.
In 1996, after living in Phoenix, Arizona area for over 40 years, Gary and his beloved wife Kathy moved to Republic, Missouri, where they bought a home and some land that allowed Gary to rekindle his inner farming spirit. He found joy in planting trees, raising a few calves, caring for several dogs, and especially doting on his beloved donkeys.
Gary was a man of deep faith whose love for Jesus Christ was evident in every aspect of his life. He lived out his faith with quiet strength and unwavering conviction. Gary was active in many Disciples of Christ congregations throughout the Ozarks, including serving as a Deacon and most recently attending First Christian Church of Ash Grove. His faith shaped how he loved others, how he faced life's trials, and how he saw the world-as a place where God's grace and goodness could be found in everyday moments.
Music was one of Gary's greatest passions and lifelong companions. A gifted musician and songwriter, he poured his heart and soul into every lyric and melody. Whether strumming his guitar at home, recording in local studios, or performing for friends and family, Gary's music reflected the joy he found in life's simple moments. Over the years, he wrote and recorded dozens of songs and was a proud member of the Arizona Songwriters Association and the Ozarks Noteworthy Songwriters Association. To those who knew him, Gary's music was more than a talent-it was a ministry, a love language and a lasting legacy.
Gary, Kathy, their two children and their spouses, and seven grandchildren shared many beautiful memories together. Though he will be deeply missed, we know this is not goodbye-just so long until we meet again.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Kathy; his daughter, Kami, and her husband, Jeremy; his son, David, and his wife Kristina; his seven grandchildren: Samantha Ward, Austin, Andrew, and Ashton Johnson, Kyleigh, Garrison, and Jackson Nordyke; and his brother-in-law, Mike Andrews and his wife Diane, and his niece Katie and nephew Evan, and their families. He is also survived by numerous friends and extended family.
Memorial Services will be held Friday, June 20, 2025, at Gorman Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield, Missouri beginning with visitation at 10AM. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11AM officiated by Mike Andrews and John Wheeler. This will be followed by burial with full military honors at the Missouri Veteran's Cemetery, at 5201 S. Southwood St. in Springfield, Missouri. Following the burial everyone is invited to join family and friends for a luncheon reception at the Springfield Boat House, at 2312 Lake Springfield Park Rd. in Springfield, Missouri.
Floral arrangements may be sent to Gorman Scharpf Funeral Home, and memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church of Ash Grove, 211 State Highway F, Ash Grove, Missouri, 65604.