Obituary
Gary Keith Embry, 82, of Leawood, KS, formerly of Greenwood MO, passed away while surrounded by his loving family on October 20, 2023. Visitation to be held at Langsford Funeral Home from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by a service at 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday October 25, 2023. Burial will take place immediately after at Floral Hills East cemetery.
Gary was born April 18, 1941, at home on a farm near Butler, MO to George and Albertha (Smith) Embry, with whom he remained close throughout their lives. He especially remembered fondly long walks and talks with his dad. Growing up in the Butler area, Gary walked 1.5 miles to and from a one-room schoolhouse during his grade school years. He graduated from Butler High School in 1959 and married his high school sweetheart the following year.
He attended classes at Central Missouri University, Rockhurst College and Central Michigan University, and earned a certificate in Certified Purchasing Management. In 1964 Gary began his 34-year purchasing career with General Motors at the Leeds plant in Kansas City, a profession and industry he very much enjoyed. Following a stint at the Tech Center in Warren, MI, he retired and returned to Lee’s Summit/Greenwood, MO.
A life-long baseball fan, Gary shared his love of the sport with both of his sons, attending Royals games together and coaching their successful little league teams. He served as President of the Greenwood Little League Association, during which he was instrumental in the construction of a new Little League Baseball field, built in the Greenwood City Park and still used today. Once grandchildren entered his life, he became their number one fan, attending every baseball, softball, swimming, cross country, track, football, basketball, soccer game – with his wide grin and constant support.
Another of Gary’s joys was spending time in the outdoors; hunting, fishing or just admiring the natural beauty that surrounded him. He made several hunting trips to Wyoming and Canada with his friends, and whether he was fishing in a farm pond or at Truman Lake he relished the challenge of catching the “Big One.”
Gary was baptized at a young age and a member of the Chipman Road Church of Christ. Throughout his life, faith and family remained his greatest love and legacy. Never was there a more loving, proud “Papa.”
Gary is survived by his wife of 63 years Marcella (Marcy), son Greg and wife Karen, son Mark and wife Robin; five beloved grandchildren, Gabrielle Wood (Ryan), Luke, Palmer, Kathryn and Paige Embry; and two great-grandchildren, Ruby and Oliver Wood. We are all so blessed to have had him in our lives and he will forever remain in our hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Gavin Embry.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to KC Hospice (https://www.kchospice.org/donation/) or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Langsford Funeral Home, 115 SW 3rd Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
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Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
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Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Gary was my cousin and although I didn’t see him often, in our adult years, he was always a joy when we were together. He had a beautiful smile and a quick wit, and he was a wonderful man. My heart goes out to the family. I pray for healing and extend my love to you all.
Gary’s smile and his laugh and sense of humor are very much missed by these neighbors! I’ll never forget his sage advice to me as I struggled to do my yard work. He would always say “Doc, you need to work smarter, not harder!!”. Gary was my wise counselor!! I’m missing Gary greatly. Jody and I love you Marcy.
Greg and Mark, many prayers for you and your entire family. May God continue his blessings for you all.
So sorry to hear of Gary passing. Hugs and prayers to you and you family.