Gary Walter Fife

  Gary Walter Fife received his eternal heavenly wings from the Lord on Sunday, July 28, 2024, leaving behind the earthly wings of gold he wore in distinguished service to our republic. He was a humble lifelong fearless warrior with the heart of a servant for God, family-friends, and the United States of America. Gary lived with purpose and now rests from his labors on earth. 

  A private family celebration of life will be held in Weatherford, Texas. Interment will be at the Annetta Cemetery, in Parker Country, with military honors. 

  Gary was born on February 26, 1953, in Weatherford, Parker County, Texas, where he grew up and was an active member of the Church of Christ, regardless of where he resided. Gary graduated from Weatherford High School, received his associate's from Weatherford College, received his bachelor's degree at Commerce (A&M), and his master's from Troy University, in Florida. He excelled in mathematics.

  Retired Maj., Gary joined the USMC in 1975 and served as an Officer and Naval Aviator until 1995. He executed a 5-year contract to be in Europe for a major aircraft manufacturer at the time of his military retirement. However, he suffered his first stroke as his military retirement was being finalized. Gary returned home to Weatherford, Texas, where he soon began a new career in education and was active in the Young Marines programs (Toys For Tots) and the American Legion Post 163. He taught high school mathematics, was a university adjunct math professor, and served on the Garner ISD Board. Then, due to continual strokes, Gary transitioned to full-time family, ranching and farming. 

  The ‘dash’ between his birth and passing was remarkable. Gary’s military career passion was flying; and fly he did! Gary was like an eagle owning his sky in solo flight. Bold. Regal. Soaring. He scaled new heights with power and ease. Untamed. Joyous. Free. The U.S. Marines had offered Gary more flight time to join than the other military branches. He proudly wore his gold wings, humbly serving at home and abroad during peacetime, Gulf Wars (Desert Shield), flight instructor, duty on the USS New Orleans (Pacific & Mediterranean), member of military review-investigations and so much more. He flew from the majestic American Ship and became seasoned by sun and storm, quietly joining others to create history that would forever remain hidden treasures owned by the ocean and seas. When the USMC pinned wings of gold on his uniform, Gary was invited to be a part of the team assigned to fly Marine One. He passed on that tour invitation, which gave our father, a WWII veteran, great concern; thinking that Gary’s decision was a career mistake. There was no need to worry, as when Gary retired, he was honored at a USMC ball in Pensacola for having the most flight hours of anyone in the Marines at that time – accident free. He was trained on fixed wing and helicopters. He flew CH-46 helicopters and others, and was one of a few pilots with over 1,000-Night flight hours. Gary was known to be the first pilot out and last one home. Gary was respected and admired by those who flew with him and those that he taught to fly. During his teaching career, he was recognized many times and received special recognition as an outstanding university adjunct professor. 

  It must be said that his ‘dash’ was not only filled with accomplishments; but was much longer than military and civilian medical teams diagnosed. At military retirement, the teams diagnosed three years maximum life expectancy. This year marked 30 years of life since the original diagnosis; a special gift to his family and friends. 

  To each phase of his life, Gary brought purpose, wisdom, loyalty, honor, innovation, humility, intelligence, accountability, respect, talent, a generous heart, good humor, and the highest standards of excellence. Gary met each of life’s challenges directly and with God’s grace and his determination, he overcame much to make a positive difference. 

  The legacy of Gary Walter Fife will be carried into the future by his survivors: brother, Larry D. Fife, of Weatherford; sisters, Betty K. Burkhart, of Keller; Ruth E. Swancy (Craig), of Weatherford; B. Lynn Fife, of Saginaw; Rhonda D. Fife, of Abilene; and Barbara Ann Fife, of Weatherford; nephews, Chris Swancy and Matt Swancy (Kathy); nieces, Taylor Ann Elrod (Corey); Tiffany LeAnn Freestone (Tedd); Kimbell Elizabeth Wells (Derrick); Stephanie Wood (Todd); and those who owned his heart, made him laugh and nicknamed “The Greats”: Karlye Michele, Jason Blaine, Emma LeAnn, Riley Elizabeth, Walter Don, Ella Rose, Elizabeth Morgan, Ruby Lou, Ethan Oliver, Sophie Marie, Kenlee (Jonathan), Kylie, and Brexton. 

  Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Walter B. and Bertie Lou Phillips Fife; sister, Ruby Lee Thornhill; nephew, C. Richard Thornhill; grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; as well as, his military family and friends. 

  On behalf of Gary, special recognition is given to Gene and Ruby Wall and their son, Richard, of Pensacola; godsons, James and Daniel Waites (sons of Claire and the late Jim Waites, Pensacola); Ty Cannedy, Joann Cassidy, Carlos Dominquez, Linda Edwards, Enrique Flores, John Hale of the American Legion Post 163, Toni Rhodes, and Laura Turner.

  Our family is grateful for those who made a difference in Gary’s ability to meet health challenges during the last couple of years. Taylor Kuritz, RN [first caregiver, leaving giant footsteps for others to follow], Dr. James Keith Roland, along with Tiffani and Michelle; Amanda Kropski, Sarah, Donna, and Amy of Synergy HomeCare; Dr. Loren Mott; Dr. Christopher Ellis; Dr. Jay Carpenter; Dr. Ray Page and Dr. Aaron Laine of the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders; Dr. Joseph L. Milburn, Jr. and Dr. Vitaly Margulis of UT Southwestern-Dallas; the 7C200 Doctors and Nurses at the VA Dallas Medical Complex; and the Santa Fe Rehabilitation Center staff. We are thankful for the faithful prayers of many friends and neighbors. 

  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity that supports our military, law enforcement and first responders.