Garry Dale Gabbard, 78, of Sand Gap, Kentucky, was born in Madison County on February 27, 1948. He peacefully passed away in his sleep at his home on September 8, 2026, where he was reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 55 years, Bonnie Bowman Gabbard.
Garry was the son of the late Charlie Gabbard and Eudill Riddle Wardle. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, serving in Korea, Germany, and Japan. During his military service, he was awarded three medals in recognition of his service to his country.
Garry was the founder, owner, and operator of Gabbard Signs, Inc., which he proudly owned and operated for more than 40 plus years.
Above all, Garry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished his family deeply and leaves behind many who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
He is survived by his children, Garry Ray (Tammy) Gabbard, Michael (Ashley) Gabbard and Misty (Gary) Gabbard-Matthews; his great-granddaughter and adopted daughter, Braelynn Alexis Gabbard; and his sister, Charlotte (Gary) Bryant.
He is also survived by his loving grandchildren: Aurora Gabbard, Angela Gabbard, Michaela Gabbard, Gabriella (Keegan) Parker, Michael Granillo, Adrieona Matthews, Austin Webb, Adam Matthews, Chazz Lunsford, Kia Lunsford, Jordan Parrett, and Jayden Parrett.
His surviving great-grandchildren include Grayson and Wyatt Parker, Bryden Bolton, Aryiah Gabbard, Lorina “Bella” Granillo, Millie Jo Neeley, Avery and Sterling Smith, Ava Webb, Nova Matthews, Amaiah and Marlow Lunsford, McKoy, and Jaxon Turner.
Garry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bonnie Bowman Gabbard, and his two granddaughters, Amberlynn Gabbard and Jessica Gabbard.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his years.
Funeral Services for Garry Dale Gabbard will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Lakes Funeral Home in McKee, Kentucky, with Bro. Brian Gabbard officiating. Burial will follow at Gabbard Cemetery.
Pallbearers:
Gary Matthews, Austin Webb, Adam Matthews, Chazz Lunsford, Keegan Parker, and Jordan Parrett.
