Cover photo for Garry Keith Paris's Obituary
Garry Keith Paris Profile Photo
1940 Garry 2020

Garry Keith Paris

December 4, 1940 — September 3, 2020

Garry Keith Paris, 79, of McKinney, TX, was born December 4, 1940 in Martins Mill, TX, the youngest of seven children to Eugene and Lizzie Paris. He passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2020 in McKinney, TX.

He was preceded in death by both parents, his late wife, Viva Paris, brothers: Van, Alton, Edwin and Bill Paris, and sisters: Joyce Schatlin and JoAnn Halbert.

Garry was a devoted husband and friend who enjoyed the perks of retirement, spending time with his wife and loving on his dogs, PJ & Sassy. He was a quiet guy who often sat back and observed what was going on around him and he enjoyed being with others. He served in the US Army for 19 years and did 2 tours in Vietnam. He was a drill instructor in Fort Jackson, South Carolina for 2 years before he retired. He loved his masonic brothers and was a proud Master Mason for more than 50 years. He was an endowed member of Mt. Hiram Masonic Lodge number 595 of Copperas Cove, TX where he served as Master of the lodge twice, secretary for more than 20 years, district instructor for more than 15 years, a former District Deputy Grand Master and an active member of several of the Masonic appendant bodies. He was well liked in the retirement community where he lived for over two years at The Chateau in McKinney. Garry will be missed by all who loved him.

From March 1958 to November 1977, Garry served with Exceptionally Meritorious Service, while serving as Aviation Maintenance Sergeant. Gary achieved the rank of sergeant First Class before he retired from the U.S. Army. Gary Paris' dedication to duty and selfless service enhanced the operational support and readiness of the United States Army during his tenure, including two tours in Vietnam and other duty assignments throughout his career. He joined the Army as Engineer Equipment repairer on the 28th day of March 1958, and later received the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) reclassification of 67H UH1 Helicopter Mechanic. Gary's military awards include: The Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal foe Valorous Service (V-device), Bronze Star Medal (2OLC), The Army Commendation Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam campaign medal with device, Air Medal, and the Drill Instructor Badge.
Sergeant First Class Garry Paris' actions were in keeping with the finest traditions and customs of the United States Army and reflect credit upon himself, his family, and the United States Army.

He leaves behind his wife, Darlyne Paris, daughter, Cindy Paris, son, Charles Paris (wife, Janice) along with grandchildren Taylor, Corey and Chad and many nieces, nephews, fellow Little Bears, other extended family and friends.

Funeral services celebrating Garry's life will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2020, officiated by Pastor, Wes Brown. Bill Chenoweth will give the eulogy and James Cooney will be a special speaker.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Garry Keith Paris, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Thursday, September 17, 2020

10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)

Cowboy Church of Collin County

2800 FM3364, Princeton, TX 75407

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Funeral Service

Thursday, September 17, 2020

11:00am - 12:00 pm (Central time)

Cowboy Church of Collin County

2800 FM3364, Princeton, TX 75407

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Burial

Thursday, September 17, 2020

2:30 - 2:45 pm (Central time)

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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