Gary Dale Harp

Gary Dale Harp, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, just one day shy of his 79th birthday. He was born on April 1, 1947, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Carl and Bernice Harp, and was lovingly raised by his grandparents, James and Clare Hembree, who helped shape the strong, caring man he became.

Gary was a proud graduate of Webster High School, Class of 1965. Shortly after, he honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968, and continued his service in the Army Reserves until 1972. His dedication, discipline, and quiet strength were evident throughout his life.

On a foundation of love and devotion, Gary shared 57 beautiful years of marriage with his cherished wife, Kathy Lee Harp. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and unwavering commitment. He was a proud and loving father to his daughters, Kristie Lee McDermott and her husband Joey, and Tracie Lynn Gilbert and her husband Tommy.

Gary, affectionately known as "Papa," found his greatest joy in his family. He leaves behind nine treasured grandchildren-Taylor, Tori, Maddie, Van, T.J., Kassidy, McKenzie, Payten, and Hayden-and ten adored great-grandchildren-Eden, Bear, Mac, Judah, Shepherd, Abby, Leeland, Myles, Colten, and Hudson-with another precious great-grandbaby expected this fall. Each of them was a source of immense pride and joy in his life.

Gary dedicated over 40 years to the sporting goods industry, building lasting relationships and a respected career. His love for sports extended far beyond his profession. For 35 years, he served as a high school and college basketball referee, leaving a lasting impact on athletes and colleagues alike. He also cherished his time playing fastpitch softball, where teammates became lifelong friends and memories were made that he carried with him always.

Gary had a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He loved Southern Gospel music, playing golf, watching sports-especially cheering on the OU Sooners-and never missed an episode of his favorite television drama, The Young and the Restless. More than anything, he loved watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play sports, always their biggest supporter from the sidelines.

In 1982, Gary made the most important decision of his life when he walked down the aisle of Mounds First Baptist Church and gave his heart to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was later ordained as a deacon on October 5, 1998, and faithfully served his church and community with humility, compassion, and unconditional love. His life was a reflection of his favorite Bible verse, Romans 12:15: "Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep."

Gary took great pride in his home and especially his yard. Known for his perfectly straight mowing lines, he found joy in caring not only for his own lawn but often for his neighbors' as well-many times without them even knowing. Fondly referred to as the "white-haired man on his riding lawnmower," Gary's quiet acts of kindness and servant's heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Above all, Gary's true passion was the life he built with Kathy and the time he spent with his family. His legacy is one of love, faith, generosity, and integrity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

"Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep." - Romans 12:15