Gary Leroy Harbison's Obituary
Weslaco - Gary Leroy Harbison, a beloved and dedicated figure in the Weslaco community, passed away on August 4, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on June 6, 1944, Gary lived a full and vibrant life marked by deep relationships, professional success, and a spirited personality that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.A proud graduate of Weslaco High School, Gary went on to attend mechanic school, sharpening skills that aligned with his lifelong passion for cars and tractors. That passion began early-he was enamored with cars by the age of two and drove his first tractor at just seven.Gary built a thriving career as a salesman, known far and wide for his remarkable gift of persuasion-he could "sell ice to an Eskimo." He and his beloved wife, Lynn, owned and operated Aloe Vera Products for over 30 years. Together, they were a formidable team in business and life, earning a reputation for honesty, integrity, and heartfelt care for their customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.Gary was also a devoted member of Bridge Avenue Church of Christ, where he found great joy in fellowship and worship. A longtime member, he cherished his church family deeply. With his unmistakable charm and the "gift of gab," Gary never met a stranger-whether at church, around town, or on his many travels.He was known for his ornery sense of humor, warm storytelling, and contagious laughter. His love for woodworking brought him peace and pride, and he relished traveling through the Texas Hill Country, creating unforgettable memories with those he loved. He also had a sweet tooth and delighted in life's simple pleasures-strawberry shakes, chocolate-covered graham crackers, spaghetti, and a cold Coke were among his favorites.More than anything, Gary was a people person. He encouraged others, built deep connections, and prioritized his family, faith, and friendships. His legacy is not just in what he accomplished, but in the lives he touched and the joy he shared.Gary was preceded in death by his loving wife and business partner, Lynn; his parents, Carl and Kareene (Gary) Harbison; his brother, Steve Harbison, and the mother of his children, Paulette Kathleen Harpster-Harbison.He is survived by his children, Kathy Hitchcock (Les) of Denison, Texas; Candy Chrisman (Scott) of Jackson, Tennessee; Heather Womble of Bertram, Texas; and David Harbison (Karen) of Royse City, Texas. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Denise Harbison; his grandchildren, Benjamin Hitchcock and Jonathan Hitchcock, Kayla Malakowsky (Mike), Kristen Mosher (Lance), Christopher Rich (Marion), Haley Wilson (Chris), Zac Chrisman (Leah), Logan Chrisman (Taylor), Allison Womble, Hunter Womble, Collin Womble, Cynthia Epperly (Morgan), and Preston Harbison (Angeles); and great-grandchildren, Drake, Sophia, Silas, Asher, Flo, Penny, Evvy, Hattie Mae, Gideon, Walter, Hunter, Collin, Indy, Maggie, Catherine, Madeline, Liam, and Great-great grandchild Jaydin Malakowsky.He also leaves behind countless friends, his cherished church family, and dear companions from Weslaco Nursing and Rehab. Among them, Lynn's sons, Bill McNabb of New Braunfels and Butch McNabb (Lizette), also held a special place in his heart.Gary's memory will live on in the laughter he sparked, the faith he shared, and the love he gave so freely.
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