Gary Donovan Leming

Gary D. Leming, known affectionately as "Papa," passed away on June 24, 2024, at the age of 70 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on January 4, 1954, in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, Gary spent his youth in his hometown, eventually graduating from Pawhuska High School and furthering his education at Tulsa Community College where he earned his degree is Quality Control Technology with a passion for Metallurgy. Gary's professional life was marked by a series of positions that highlighted his versatility and hardworking nature. He began his career in the oil fields which was during the same period he met his beloved wife, Deborah. His career journey included roles at Overlees Woods, Phillips Research in maintenance and Petrolite in Barnsdall. He concluded his professional life at Bartlesville Public Schools as a carpenter, where he retired, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and craftsmanship. A man of many interests, Gary was a quiet soul who cherished time spent with his family. He was passionate about playing his guitar, hunting for Indian artifacts, and engaging in various DIY projects. Whether it was fixing motorcycles or cars, or simply enjoying builder and fixer-upper shows, Gary found joy in working with his hands. As he would always say “I’m a Jack of all trades and a master of none”. His love for old school rock and roll music often filled the rooms of his home, which, alongside Branson, Missouri, was one of his favorite places. Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Deborah Leming; daughters Dyani Leming and Daysha Leming; son-in-law Anthony; grandchildren Donovan Crumpton, Monte Howard, and Matilynn Leming; great-grandchildren Ava Howard, Mason Howard, Kamden Howard, and one baby Crumpton on the way. He also leaves behind his brother-in-laws Tom Pierce (Donna) of Niotaze, and Shane Pierce of Bartlesville; nieces Lenaya Beck, Donita Pierce, Darcy Hockett, Britanya Pierce,Chandra Leming, Heather Eisel, and Hilary Clark; and granddogs Vada, Yoda, and Ace (aka: Pacman). Gary was preceded in death by his parents, William D. Leming and Cornelia Leming; brother William V. Leming; and mother and father-in-laws Dale & Delores Pierce, along with his beloved dogs, Apache & Cheyenne. Services to honor Gary's life will be held on Monday, July 8th, 2024, at 1:00 pm. Stumpff Funeral Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, will be assisting the family during this time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Washington County SPCA, an organization close to Gary's heart. His love for animals was evident in the care he provided to his pets and his support for animal welfare. Gary D. Leming will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose gentle spirit and skilled hands left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Gary Donovan Leming

January 4, 1954 - June 24, 2024