Gary Ray Stone

Gary Ray Stone, born on March 27, 1956, in Bonham, Texas, joined his heavenly family on November 26, 2025, in Louisburg, Kansas. Gary was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather. He was renowned for his kindness and generosity, making friends wherever he went. He was a devout Christian and strove to embody the teachings of Christ in all his life.

Gary grew up in Savoy, Texas, where he attended high school, graduating in the class of 1974. He began a brief career in electronics at Texas Instruments before joining the Marine Corps. He was proud of his service in the Marines, serving for seven years. He was stationed for much of that time in Japan, where he likely got into more trouble than he would ever admit later in life.

Gary was an alcoholic, and his days in the Marine Corps didn’t help combat that, but he found an AA group and turned his life around, living a completely sober life since 1977. This experience inspired him to help others do the same, and he became a counselor helping those struggling with substance abuse. This led him to Spokane Washington where he met and married Karen Hart on October 16, 1982. Karen was the love of his life. They ran a counseling company together in Spokane before returning to Texas where Gary finished his degree and began a career with the VA in Bonham, helping veterans escape the grips of addiction for the next few decades.

Together, they also raised their daughter Melody (Richard) McKibbin, and son, Matthew Ray (Kelsey) Stone. Gary adored their two grandchildren, Jacen Ray Stone and Kaylee McKibbin.

Gary was an ordained minister and preached at the Church of the Harvest in Tom Bean (and later Denison) Texas. Most recently, he was an active member of the Louisburg United Methodist Church. He always had a passion for electronics which led to him becoming a Ham Radio operator (callsign N5PHT) and enjoying that hobby for many years. He was also an avid cyclist, rising most mornings at 4 AM to go indoor or outdoor cycling, logging enough miles to circle the planet three times over.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Dwight and Gladys Stone, and his brother, Roy Stone. He leaves behind a loving legacy, cherished by his family and community, touching the lives of thousands through his work both in the church and as a counselor. Gary will be remembered not only for his accomplishments and service but also for his unwavering love and devotion to those he held dear. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Memorial service is planned for a later date at the Louisburg United Methodist Church, please continue to check the website for updated service times. 

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