Gary Pullen

Gary Lee Pullen of Lubbock, loving husband to Doris, father to Charla and Michael, beloved grandfather (D-dad) to Gordon and Garrison, proud great grandfather to Bennett, and wonderful brother to two siblings, passed away at home on Feb. 24, 2023, surrounded by family. Proud of his Texas heritage and Texas Tech degree, Gary loved studying Texas lore and legend, cheering on the Red Raiders, and creating beautiful art and painting projects for his family and friends.

Gary was born Dec. 27, 1941, in Fort Worth, Texas. As the youngest son of Marie and Leon Bennett (LB) Pullen, Gary grew up in East Dallas where he often found mischief and fun, riding streetcars, going to movies, and hanging out with his older brother Don. Gary was a scrappy young man, often running the streets and getting into scuffles with big brother Don at his side. (Don used to place bets with other guys, betting them a Baby Ruth candy bar that his little brother could beat them up. Others who took the bet usually lost!)

After joining his father in Lubbock at the age of 12, he attended Roosevelt School where he met Doris Jean Killian. With permission (allegedly), Gary drove his dad’s car to pick up Doris Jean for the 8th grade school dance. He drove her home where the two enjoyed a goodnight kiss that turned into a lifetime of love and happiness. With “In the Mood” by the legendary Glen Miller Band playing at the New Mexico Military Institute (where Gary attended high school) Mardi Gras Ball, Gary proposed to Doris. The couple would marry in 1961 and enjoyed a 62-year marriage until parted by Gary’s death.

At New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico, Gary excelled academically and in sports. He also earned the nickname “Pappy” because high school football teammates said he ran “like an old man,” which made Gary laugh out loud. After NMMI, Gary’s run of academic achievement continued at Texas Tech where he graduated with a degree in Business Administration while working full-time in the banking industry. With wife, Doris and their children, Charla and Michael, Gary began a long business career, working in the banking, funeral, and senior living industries. He worked until past his 70th birthday.

Gary was instrumental in bringing youth soccer and soccer facilities to his community in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma in the 1970’s. He coached, played, and was a soccer referee for many years. Wherever life took him, Gary also loved serving his beloved Episcopal congregations, including most recently, St. Stephens in Lubbock. He served as a lay reader and chalice bearer throughout his church- attending life.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Shirley, and his brother Donald Ray. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Doris, the love of his life. He is also survived by daughter Charla (and her spouse, Keith) and son Michael, two Grandsons, Gordon (and his spouse, Sarah), and Garrison, and Great Grandson, Bennett.

Gary also served as a brother, mentor, and father figure to many others including and especially to his sister-in-law, Kitty and niece, Cheryl and Cheryl’s husband, Mark, and their children, Samantha (and partner Mira) and Jacob. We’re grateful for their love and support of Gary throughout his life. His beloved dog, Chico will also miss Gary very much.

We’re grateful for all the love and support from family and friends and medical care providers, especially Dr. Stanley Garrett, who treated Gary with dignity and respect, and caregivers Herlinda and Lisa who helped Gary with end of life care.

Gary’s life will be celebrated at his funeral service that will be held Friday, March 3, at 11:00 AM at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Lubbock (with visitation at 10:00 A.M. ,March 3, at the church).  The family suggests memorial donations be made to the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Choir Scholarship Fund, 1101 Slide Road, Lubbock, TX  79416.