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Gary Lynn Drew, 75, of Longview, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, in the arms of his best friend and wife, Beverly Drew.
Born August 28, 1949, in Jefferson, Texas, Gary was the son of Joseph and Dorothy Drew. A graduate of Pine Tree High School, Gary went on to spend the remainder of his adult life and career as a machinist. He held various roles in some of the most notable machine shops in the Greater Longview area and was widely known in the industry as a master at his craft. He was often the person called in to fix problems that seemed irreparable.
Gary was well known for his humor, his ‘full of life’ spirit, his strong convictions, and his candid one-liners that kept all his friends and family smiling. He never missed an opportunity for an adventure. His younger years were spent riding three-wheelers, camping, and racing catamarans. His later years involved catching limits of catfish for a good fish fry, motorcycle rides with his best buddies, and soaking up every ounce of love and laughter along the way. However, Gary would tell you that his best days were spent fellowshipping with family and friends, while sipping a cold Old Milwaukee Light (which he would happily share as long as you were willing to give him a “testimonial” that it was, in fact, the best beer in America).
He was a timeless friend, a father who always showed up, a PawPaw who never wavered, a loving brother who always had your back, and a husband who loved unconditionally. One could never attempt to fully capture the life of Gary Drew in words. For those who really knew him, you knew that God truly broke the mold with Gary Drew. He was “So Good”!
Gary is survived by his wife, Beverly Drew; daughter, Amy Baker, and her husband, Obie Baker; grandchildren, Andrew Maynard, Addison Baker, and Owen Baker; sister, Gale Dodson, and her husband, David Dodson; and brother, DeWayne Drew. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of life will be held on August 10th at Amy and Obie Baker’s home (11675 Noonday Rd., W. Longview, TX 75605) from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with dinner to follow for those who would like to join. All who knew and loved Gary are welcome to attend. For those who wish to stay for dinner, please RSVP via text or phone call to 903-631-1084.
Honorary pallbearers include David Dodson, DeWayne Drew, Terry Boykin, Mark Slaughter, Neil Martin, Walter Peacock, Dwayne Tuttle, Larry Smith and Jeff Spivey.
Gary’s legacy of friendship, generosity, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Lynn Drew, please visit our floral store.