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Gary Don Finney was born on December 22, 1957, to Leroy Finney and Hazel Allen Finney, in Honey Grove, Texas. He transitioned to eternity with his Lord on June 13, 2020, in Plano, Texas.
Gary attended Honey Grove High School where he graduated as salutatorian. He went on to attend East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University - Commerce) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. He enjoyed a longtime career in Human Resources. At the time of his transition, he was Director of Human Resources for the University of North Texas System.
On March 15, 1980, Gary married the love of his life, Sandra Strawn. To their union, two beautiful daughters were nurtured and loved. The two remained united in holy matrimony for 40 years until his transition.
Gary accepted Christ at a young age and remained faithful to God's word throughout his life. He joined First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park in the early 1980's and remained an integral part of ministry. Among many roles, he served as Moderator of FBCHP, Sunday School Superintendent, and Chairman of the Deacon’s Ministry for over 20 years. He was also honored as Man of the Year. Gary's love language was acts of service and gifts. He touched many lives and had a special endearment for people across all racial, socioeconomic, and personal boundaries. From his daughters' friends to young adults to senior saints, Gary was the representation of stability and consistency. His positive and humorous spirit influenced all who crossed his path. "Make a Positive Difference" was more than a sentiment to Gary, he personified such passion in his daily walk.
Affectionately regarded as "Poppie" by his grandchildren, Gary delighted in history, westerns, video games, and football. He was also a coin collector, an interest he shared with his younger daughter. He most enjoyed spending time with his family. A natural leader with an admirable humility, Gary served on several local advisory boards including Texas A&M – Commerce Alumni Association’s Board of Directors (past President for two terms), El Centro College’s Management Advisory Committee, and the W. H. Adamson High School Career & Technology Board. He also served as a board member for the Dallas Human Resources Management Board of Directors and Park South YMCA, and as a mentor in the MOMENTUM program. Gary was featured in Texas Diversity Magazine, and he served as an adjunct instructor at Richland College and as Leadership Development Instructor for INROADS.
A protector and peacemaker, Gary D. Finney was a man of noteworthy confidence, conduct, and character. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Leroy Finney, Jr.; and several aunts and uncles. Those left to cherish loving memories include his wife, Sandra Finney; daughters, Jessica Finney Mohrweis (Pastor Mark Mohrweis) and Erica Finney; grandchildren: Maxwell, Ellis, and Cora Mohrweis; siblings: M.T. Finney (Veronica), Howard Finney, Stanley Finney (LaMonica), and Lesia Spradling (Danny); siblings-in-law: Deneen Reed, Richard Strawn (Lori), and Theresa Finney; aunts, Bettye Davis and Yvonne Whitfield; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the University of North Texas by clicking the link below, then clicking the "Designation' drop down menu, and then selecting 'Gary Finney Memorial Scholarship'.
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Gary Finney Memorial Scholarship
Web: https://one.unt.edu/dallas/giving