Lisa and family. You don't know me. My name is Tim Petit ,  I was in the Army with Gary in late   1976 . We were at Ft. Leonard Wood Missouri together. Although we were friends only briefly during basic training and A.I.T. Gary obviously had a positive impact on me or I wouldn't be researching him over 45 years later !                                                                                                                                             
 I clearly recall Gary . He was a quiet leader. Loved Texas , country music , and arm "wraslin  " ! Even then , (I was 18 ), he would arm wrestle for beers when we had an opportunity to enjoy leisure time . I don't remember him losing . ......... ever !  
An all around nice guy. Even tempered, always in a good mood. While in the Army Gary and I would share a record booth on base to listen to music. We had to sign up for time to listen to music in a kind of enclosed room/booth that provided headphones .  The booths were always in demand  and there was always a waiting list .  So to allow both of us to enjoy our music we would share the allotted hour . I would listen to a song  , he would listen to a song etc. I'm from R.I.  Country music was not popular here back then . We compromised ,(somewhat). I would listen to Simon and Garfunkel and John Denver, Gary would listen to Lynyrd Skynyrd and Charlie Daniels I believe . We had the opportunity to visit Six Flags amusement park just outside of St Louis MO. Gary was wearing an armband around his arm ,(along with our khaki uniforms), with the initials S.J. Many people would see us in our uniforms and inquire about the initials S.J. I would abruptly inform whoever asked that he had to wear it to warn anyone that it stood for SUPER JERK ! Gary actually EARNED it thru a culmination of military and athletic events . e
Each event would award you points.  At the end Gary blew away the participants and was awarded the S.J. armband, which stood for............ SUPER JOCK !

So sad to hear this.  I met Gary online he told me how to get into armwresling tournaments.  I went on to win allot only to break my arm  to him in Conroe Texas .  It was God's plan and no fault of anyone's I always wanted to contact  him let him know  life after arm wrestling  was good  to . Nice man good man . I'll pull ya again up there buddy. Jason Stafford

 This was 5th grade I sure can’t believe Gary is gone Rest In Peace my long time friend 

Here we are at his lake Travis property with his best friend Travis Bagent and myself.

Gary Ray was a role model for many young arm wrestlers, world wide,he will always share his knowledge and wisdom of the sport.  He was a true gentleman.
He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. 
Rest in peace my friend 🙏

Gary and Lisa have lived across the street from my mom and dad for many years.  My mother was always working in her yard before she fell ill. When she passed, Gary cut her grass and made it look beautiful. Thank you both for being such good neighbors throughout the years. 

To many memories for just five pics so I'm trying to get creative.

Gary,

A man who was loved by many,

A man who will be missed,

A man who will never be forgotten.

Gary was a kind and generous soul,

Always willing to help others,

Always putting others before himself.

He was a true friend,

A loyal companion,

A loving husband and father.

Gary will be remembered for his sense of humor,

His infectious laugh,

His love of life.

He will be missed by all who knew him,

But his memory will live on in our hearts.

Love you, Gary.

Rest in peace brother.

South Shore Harbor in the 90's. Hey wait that's my wife!

To the family of Gary Ray. I am sorry for your loss. I knew Gary from our arm-wrestling days. He was a GREAT competitor and friend. I am the guy Gary is pulling in the YouTube video that has been viewed by many people for nearly forty years. He will be greatly missed. I think the world was a better place because he was in it.
Sincerely,
Harless "Harley" Maynard
Waynesville, Ohio

My condolences go out to Gary’s family and friends. I remember working with Gary during his TxDOT early years.  He will truly be missed.  

Cindy Martinez 

Rest in Peace buddy, always be in our heart. 

To Gary's family:
I am very shocked and saddened to learn of Gary's passing.  I worked with him a number of years at Lochner.  I don't think I have ever met a nicer guy and I really enjoyed the few years we worked together.   We kept in touch somewhat, but not enough since he left Lochner.  

Gary and you have my prayers.  I know you will miss him.

Andy Petter


Cheryl, Ryan and I remember all those happy days we spent with you all.  Gary was a terrific father and a loving husband.  God bless you Lisa, Alexis and Kiley.  We will always hold dear to us the many occasions we spent together celebrating every thing under the sun, on the lake, at the Hut or on some awesome vacations.  Gary’s smile, generosity and kindness will remain in our hearts always.  From your Lago Vista Family, The Longs.

OBITUARY

Gary Lynn Ray

December 14, 1958 – April 6, 2023

Brookside Funeral Home & Memorial Park

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services