Obituary

Gary Thomas Humphrey was born October 10, 1962, in Washington, D.C., to Frank and Betty Humphrey. He spent his early years in College Park, Maryland, where he developed a love for music and adventure. As a child, he enjoyed riding mini bikes with his older brother, Larry, and playing the piano, earning the affectionate nickname “Little Mozart” from his piano teacher.

At the age of 12, Gary and his family moved to Meadowbrook in Chesterfield, Virginia. He attended Falling Creek Junior High before graduating early from Meadowbrook High School. During high school, he discovered his passion for jazz and played the alto saxophone. Around the same time, he began his first job at Safeway Grocery in Chester.

After high school, Gary worked alongside his father, Frank, as an auditor for Howard Schultz, helping grocery stores recover lost earnings. Their work took them across the country to places like Jacksonville, Charlotte, and Paducah. When they weren’t working, Gary and his father could often be found on the water, enjoying their shared love of bass fishing. They also enjoyed the occasional hunt at the “crop land” in Amelia with their friends, Rick, CW and Steve.

Gary was, above all, a family man. He loved his mother and his sister, Peggy, with his whole heart. He and his mom shared a special bond, talking on the phone three times a day. One of his favorite memories was when she decided to try riding his mini bike—only to unexpectedly pop a wheelie across the parking lot.

His love for Peggy was just as strong. Even as kids, he looked after her like any protective older brother would. As they grew older, their sibling bond deepened into a true friendship. Their families shared a memorable Disney trip together, and throughout the progression of his illness, they remained by each other’s side. Gary and Peggy spent countless hours together, supporting one another and proudly bragging about their kids, a testament to the love and closeness they always shared.

Later in life, Gary met Renny, and in 2002, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Annie. From the moment she was born, Annie became the love of Gary’s life. Wanting to cherish every moment of her childhood, he retired early to devote himself fully to being a father. The two were inseparable, whether they were traveling to concerts, visiting the beach, or simply going out for ice cream. He never missed one of Annie’s orchestra concerts. Gary’s love for Annie was boundless, and every moment spent with her was a testament to the deep and unwavering father-daughter bond they shared.

Gary had a deep love for music and picked up many instruments along the way, including the guitar, mandolin, and banjo. He had a special appreciation for bluegrass and could often be found playing his favorite tunes. Whether it was a Norman Blake melody or the rich sound of a Martin guitar, he had a way of making his instruments sing with soul and passion.

Gary was also Winterpock’s ultimate foodie, always in search of the best local eats. He had a special love for a classic Vinny’s cheese pizza or a Five Guys burger. His passion for motorcycle riding often led him to renowned restaurants, from Moore’s for their famous chili dogs to the Briar Patch in Amherst for an unforgettable smokehouse burger. His dogs, Lucky and Mandy, always shared a bite with their Daddy.

Next to his daughter Annie, motorcycles were Gary’s greatest passion. He found joy in customizing Road Glide bikes and embracing the freedom of the open road, the wind in his beard as he rode with his friends, Danny, Owen and Brian. Even when he required supplemental oxygen, he refused to let it keep him from doing what he loved. True to his spirit, “Easy” never backed down from a challenge—he pushed forward, always determined to keep riding. He will forever be our beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend.

Gary is preceded in death by his father, Charles Franklyn Humphrey. He is survived by his daughter, Ann Miller Humphrey; mother, Betty Jane Humphrey; sister, Peggy Ann Matzen (Jeffrey); brother, Larry Gene Humphrey (Cindy); nephews, Clayton Humphrey, CJ Matzen, Luke Matzen; and niece, Magnolia Matzen. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 am with his funeral service to follow at 11:00 am on Monday, February 24 at Morrissett Funeral & Cremation Service, 6500 Iron Bridge Rd., N. Chesterfield, VA 23234. Interment to follow at Dale Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou/