Gary Keith Varnadoe

Gary Keith Varnadoe, a quiet and hardworking man, passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 63.

Gary was born on September 19, 1962, in Hazlehurst, Georgia, to James and Betty Williams Varnadoe, whom he loved dearly—especially his mother. He was raised in Warner Robins, Georgia, where he attended and graduated from Northside High School in 1980.

After high school, Gary continued his education at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Horticulture. He began his working life in sod farming, helping build golf courses, then he worked for Wade Williams and Williams Landscaping, work that reflected both his strong hands and appreciation for the land.

Gary later dedicated 35 years of service to the Civil Service at Robins Air Force Base, working in Aircraft Maintenance. His primary role involved the demanding and meticulous repair of C-130 fuel tanks. Known for his skill, reliability, and quiet dedication, Gary retired in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and pride in a job well done.

Outside of work, Gary enjoyed a simple, honest life. He loved horses and competed in barrel racing. He loved hot rods and took pride in working on his 1934 Ford, as well as attending car shows. A natural tinkerer, Gary loved fixing things and was exceptionally good with his hands. He also took great pride in yardwork, always keeping things neat and cared for.

Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a devoted Georgia Bulldogs fan, loved NASCAR and never missed the chance to watch a good Clint Eastwood movie. He spent meaningful time reading his Bible and living out his faith in quiet ways. A true country boy and a “man’s man,” Gary always kept a level head, treated everyone with kindness, and was often the voice of reason for those around him.

Though quiet by nature, Gary showed his love in powerful ways. He was known for his world-famous hugs, given freely and sincerely to those he cared about. He deeply loved his stepchildren and grandchildren, and his steady love and support will forever be remembered.

Gary Keith Varnadoe will be remembered as a quiet country boy, a devoted son, a skilled craftsman, a man of faith, and a gentle soul whose kindness, wisdom, and steady presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, James Varnadoe.

His memory will forever be treasured by his mother, Betty Williams Varnadoe; sisters, Kay Varnadoe and Sherrie Weber (Michael); Stepchildren, Kristen Miller, Alysia Long, Jennifer Long, Brittany Long, and Chelsea Conley; grandchildren, Raleigh Martin, Matthew Cannon, Stephen Sapp, Kadynce Brower, Jacob Miller, Madeline Conley, Joshy Henderson, Baylee Miller, Robert Halligan, Brinson Harrell, Noah Henderson, and Malina Halligan; and partner, Terry Conley.

Visitation will be Friday, January 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home, with a funeral service immediately following in the chapel. Afterward, Gary will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery, in Lumber City, Georgia, at 3:00 p.m.

The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of Gary Varnadoe to Georgia Equine Rescue League by visiting https://gerlltd.org/ .

For friends unable to attend at this time, the service will be streamed live at https://www.youtube.com/@McCulloughFuneralHome via the McCullough Funeral Home’s YouTube page.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.