OCTOBER 31, 1951 – JUNE 23, 2026
In the Care of Laird Funeral Home
Gary Lyn Dobbs, 74, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away in the early hours of June 23, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and follower of Christ, Gary lived a life marked by kindness, laughter, and genuine connection with others.
Born on October 31, 1951, Gary was a proud graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting before continuing his professional journey as a Certified Public Accountant. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and willingness to help others.
On June 10, 1972, Gary married the love of his life, Gloria Ann Nichols, at Big Rock Church in Cushing, Texas. Together they shared 45 wonderful years of marriage until Ann’s passing in September 2017. Their love and devotion to one another served as an example to all who knew them.
Gary is survived by his sons, Stephen Dobbs and wife Amanda Dobbs (Mineola, Texas), and Cy Dobbs and fiancée Megan Cardone (Edgewater Park, New Jersey); his cherished grandchildren, Riley Dobbs (Henderson, Texas), Kara Dobbs (Henderson, Texas), and Chad Pierce (Mineola, Texas); and a host of extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Ann Dobbs and parents, TC & Lorena Dobbs.
Gary never met a stranger. Whether visiting with a longtime friend or striking up a conversation with someone he had just met, he had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. His warm smile, quick wit, and infectious sense of humor could light up any room and leave those around him laughing.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Gary loved cooking and experimenting with new recipes, tending to his garden, and pursuing his lifelong fascination with aviation—from full-scale aircraft to model planes and flight simulators. He was also a talented musician who could play both the piano and guitar by ear, often filling gatherings with music and song. An avid photographer, he enjoyed capturing memories and preserving special moments with family and friends.
One of Gary’s greatest blessings was a friendship that spanned more than 60 years with his dear friend, Floyd Skillern. Together, they shared countless adventures, including camping trips, fishing excursions, and hikes that created memories treasured for a lifetime.
Gary also valued the friendships he maintained with his classmates from the Nacogdoches High School Class of 1970, faithfully attending monthly gatherings and enjoying the fellowship of those lifelong connections.
A man of deep faith, Gary loved listening to and singing gospel music. His favorite Bible verse was John 14:2-3:
“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
Though Gary’s earthly journey has ended, his legacy of love, laughter, friendship, faith, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary, please Laird Funeral Home’s floral store.