Gary Wayne

Tedford

Gary Tedford was born November 4th 1949 in Wichita Falls, TX to Dale and Estelle Tedford. He went to be with the Lord on October 10th 2023 just shy of his 73rd birthday after suffering his 4th heart attack. Except for his time serving his country, he was a lifetime resident of Wichita Falls. Gary was very proud of his 'Dogpatch' roots and his many lifelong friends.

He leaves behind one son, Dale Wayne Tedford of Wichita Falls, two "bonus children" by marriage, Richard Claiborne of San Antonio, and Deborah (Kevin) Johnson of Byers and three siblings, Ronnie (Sherry) Tedford, Cherry Ferguson, both of Wichita Falls, and David (Deb) Tedford of England. Survivors also include 9 grandchildren – Ryan, Blake (Kenzie), and Rachel Tedford, Lindsey (John) Lopez, Tyler, Lorelai, and Piper Johnson, Tobias and Finch Claiborne, and 3 great grandchildren. Other survivors include his in-laws Sybil Kruger, Mike (Deanna) Kruger, and Diedre (Billy) Farmer as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of wonderful friends, including his best friend, Karen Smith of Iowa Park. Karen was his 'ratrod' sidekick, companion, caretaker, and love. Together, they shared an enthusiasm for Elvis and concerts featuring Elvis impersonators, excitement for new adventures and travel, which brought much happiness into his life. She stood with him through good times and supported and encouraged him in his down times. For her, the family will always be eternally grateful.

Those preceding him in death were his parents Dale and Estelle, wife Georgia, brother Dennis, father-in-law George Kruger, two grandchildren, and his most faithful furry companion – Harley.

Gary joined the Army at the age of 17, and after completing basic training, signed on to be a parachutist. After he obtained his wings, he became a Jumpmaster, and was one of the youngest at that time to achieve this honor. He completed two tours in Vietnam with the 173rd Airborne Brigade and served in Italy as well as Germany. He was awarded the Army commendation medal, Bronze star for heroism, and Purple Heart.

A jack of all trades, Gary could fix or build nearly anything, and he was always ready to help someone if asked. His career paths were as diverse as his abilities. He worked as a mechanic, puttering with stock cars, before starting work with his father Dale, doing flooring, carpentry, and construction. He also became a licensed plumber and a long haul truck driver. His last venture was starting his own company Tedford & Son Floor Finishing with Richard.

Family get-togethers at Lake Arrowhead on special occasions were some of his fondest memories. He was always ready for a game of any kind, but especially, Wahoo or Dominoes. Win or Lose, Gary just enjoyed the competition.

Much of his youth was spent at the Wichita Falls Boys Club, where he participated in sports, Golden Gloves and swimming, as well as getting into trouble (sometimes). As an adult, he volunteered as coach, referee, and umpire for football, basketball, baseball, and boxing. He was a member of the Boys Club alumni for many years, supporting their goal of helping our youth.

Several years were devoted to the BPOE (ELKS) of Wichita Falls. He helped to renovate the building, and with his Dad, helped to install the ELK symbol which is tiled into the floor. He was eventually installed as Exalted Ruler. No one knew how hard he worked to learn the necessary rites needed to be successful. Gary struggled in school, finding out later in life that he suffered from dyslexia. As Gary matured, he never let the diagnosis stand in his way of being successful, and achieved every goal he set for himself. Raising funds for their children's hospital and other activities was a source of pride.

After retirement due to Agent Orange, PTSD, and other related ailments, Gary became a "Harley Guy". He rode many years with the Patriot Guards escorting fallen heroes to their final resting place. He was especially honored to escort Texas Medal of Honor recipients. He often placed flags and wreaths at veteran's grave sites. He and Georgia rode many a mile, and made many friends along the way. The last few years, Gary was a member of a group called the "Wrench Rods" organized by Mark Hogue. These men became like brothers. He knew he could be himself, and they accepted his "take it or leave it" attitude. They supported veterans by raising funds through their "Bridge to Bridge" rides and car shows. He earned the nickname "GRUMPY" by this amazing group of friends, and his 'rat rod' was christened Grumpy. He loved his big boy toys and he bought a lot of them. But his favorite was the car, due to the comradery and friendships he developed. Gary was an "all in" or "all out" kind of guy. When he decided to do something, he was "ALL IN", and when he tired of it, he was "ALL OUT". Those who knew him, knew he would do just about anything to help out when needed. He was a very generous and giving person with his time. Gary lived his life with the attitude of "love me, like me, or not, I am who I am".

The family would like to thank everyone involved with his care. The doctors, nurses, and staff from various facilities were amazing. You all are "angels".

His passing has left a huge space in many hearts. There is comfort in knowing he is now at peace, without pain, walking freely, and planning his next prank on one of his pals. He will be sorely missed and cannot be replaced.

A graveside military burial will be held at Fort Sill National Cemetery on Friday,  October 20th at 11:00 am. The Patriot Guards and Wrench Rods will be escorting him to his final resting place. There will be a Celebration of Life on his 73rd birthday, Saturday, November 4th at Hospice Legacy Hall on Johnson Rd in Wichita Falls from 10:00 – 12:00. Our hope is that family and friends will come and share their stories about Gary and make this a true celebration of a life well lived.

Because of Hospice's generosity, and the amazing work they do locally, donations made in Gary's honor would be appreciated, but as he was involved in many things, the charity of your choice would help further any good cause. He was DEFINITELY not a flower guy.

If anyone has pictures of Gary that they would like to share on his memorial video, please email them to MemoriesofGrumpy@gmail.com.