Gary Charles McElfresh, 76, of Tecumseh, Oklahoma passed away on Mar. 31.
Gary was born on Sep. 20, 1949, in Canton, OK, to Herman and Rose Marie (Bailey) McElfresh. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Vietnam veteran, dedicating three years of service. During his time in the military, he earned multiple honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Sharpshooter Badge (M-14 Rifle), and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with DVC60.
Gary pursued higher education at Cook County Community College in Texas, where he studied management and graduated in 1976. He went on to build a strong work ethic through various roles, including serving as a manager in the fast-food industry and later working for Pfau Tire Company. On May 11, 1981, Gary married Rhonda Parker.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Rhonda; sons and daughters-in-law, Chris and Abby McElfresh, Brian and Melissa McElfresh and Matt and Heather McElfresh; brothers and sisters-in-law, JR and Marilee McElfresh, Ron and Helen McElfresh and Don McElfresh; sister and brother in law, Leta and Alvin Brown; grandchildren, Raylee, Gage, Peyton, Kaitlyn, Jackson, Cassidy and husband Isaiah, Wyatt, Isaac; great-granddaughter Lovell and one on the way; numerous friends and loved ones.
Visitation will be held 9 am to 8 pm, April 9, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh, OK continuing through to service time, with family gathering to greet friends and loved ones from 6 pm to 8 pm. Funeral services will be held at 2 pm, April 10, 2026, at Home Church, Tecumseh, with Pastor Jerry Kuhn officiating.
