Penny Marie Gary

In Loving Memory of Penny Marie Gary

May 20, 1946 – July 8, 2024

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Penny Marie Gary on July 8, 2024, with her daughter by her side. She has been a resident of Dayton, Texas for the past 42 years. Penny was born the middle child of 2 brothers and 2 sisters on May 20, 1946, in New Iberia, Louisiana, to Joseph Sidney “Elwood” and Mable Duhon Gary. She was a woman of steadfast faith, remarkable kindness, and enduring grace.

Penny was a devout member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where she regularly attended Mass and served as a lector and eucharistic minister. Her faith guided her daily life and was evident in her acts of charity and compassion. The past 42 years Penny was a dedicated assistant to her work with Bill Sjolander Enterprises. She was known to all who she crossed paths with as “Ms. Penny.”

A devoted mother, Penny’s greatest joy was her daughter, Veronica “Roni”. Penny cherished every moment spent with Veronica and took immense pride in her accomplishments. Veronica remembers her mother as being a loving, supportive, and encouraging role model. Penny was a proud MawMaw to her two beloved grandchildren, Nathan and Natalie, who brought immense joy and light to her life. She was thrilled to become a G-Maw and welcome her first great-grandchild, Cooper, whose smile, love and curiosity brightened her days and brought her immense happiness. She was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her 2nd great grandson this December. 

Penny is survived by her daughter, Veronica and, husband, Justin Abshire of Dayton; her grandson, Nathan and wife Kay of Dayton; her granddaughter Natalie and, husband, Bo of Dayton; her great-grandchild, Cooper; her siblings, Johnny (Sherry) Gary, Sylvia (Glenn) Champeaux, June Gary, and Woody (Mary) Gary all of Louisiana; her God children, Troy (Robin) Champeaux, and Cedric (Theresa) Champeaux; her favorite cousin, Lydia Lee. Along with numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her mother-in-law, Marie Estes.

Ms. Penny will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her dedication to her profession, her generous heart, and her never ending love for her family. She touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A rosary will be held on July 11, 2024, at 8:30 AM at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home. A visitation will follow the rosary from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July 11, 2024, at 12:00 PM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by interment at Liberty Catholic Cemetery.