Gary Allen Mowbray, 73, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, passed away on April 19, 2024, at Sentara RMH Medical Center. He was born on June 18, 1950 in Harrisonburg, VA and was the son of the late Percy Thomas and Grace Ann Crawford Mowbray.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Wanda Baker; brothers, Dennis “Buster” Mowbray, Kermit Mowbray, and Bobby Mowbray Sr.

Gary was raised in Dayton, VA by his late aunt, Blanche Shifflett and graduated from Turner Ashby High School in 1969.

Gary served his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1971 to 1975. His dedication to duty and service was evident throughout his military career.

After his time in the Navy, Gary and a friend and partner started Coak-A-Mow Contracting business and spent the latter part of his career as a licensed insurance agent, where he demonstrated a strong work ethic and truly enjoyed getting to know and help Harrisonburg’s diverse community.

Throughout his life, Gary enjoyed BMW Roadsters, great music, and spending time with his family and friends. He had a great sense of humor, always appreciated a good joke, and could deliver one like no one else. Gary loved animals, wide open spaces and like any Southerner would, a good home cooked meal, sweet tea, and strawberries.

Gary is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 48 years, Sue; children, Shanna (Steve) Johnson of Bellingham, WA, Brandon (Abby) Mowbray of Salt Lake City, UT, and 6 grandchildren: Vander, Caspar, Anders & Stellan Mowbray, and Bennett and Lillian Johnson and his brother, Stanford (Bucky) Mowbray and wife, Maggie McHenry, Md., and so many loving supportive nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Gary, “Mo,” “Honeybun,” “Pop-Pop,” “Granddad,” “Slim” and “The Gary”, as he was affectionately known at times throughout his life was hardworking, a proud grandfather, and leaves behind a legacy that is more than enough for any good life.

To honor Gary, his immediate family would like to encourage everyone to register to become an organ donor as he was a recipient of this gift of life twice. The family thanks all the doctors and nurses for their care and compassion on the Critical Care Unit at Sentara RMH who took care of Gary. A special heartfelt thank you to Dr. Terry Overby for 38 years of exceptional care.

Kyger Funeral Home in Elkton, VA, is assisting with the arrangements for Gary, ensuring a dignified farewell for a man who touched the hearts of many.

Friends and family are welcome to gather from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the funeral home in Elkton.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 25, 2024, at the funeral home. All attendees are invited to share a story or favorite memory of Gary.

For those wishing to make a donation in Gary’s name, please consider the Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA, PO Box 413, Harrisonburg, VA 22803, or Disabled American Veterans @www.DAV.org.