It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Dean Littrell, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, coach, and mentor who dedicated his life to shaping the minds and hearts of countless individuals. He departed this world on February 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration, wisdom, and indelible impact.
Born on June 27, 1952, Gary spent his 71 years on this earth, leaving an enduring mark on the lives of his children, grandchildren, students, athletes, and colleagues alike. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of those around him.
As an educator, Gary devoted his career to the pursuit of knowledge and the empowerment of young minds. He held positions at Newtown Harris R-III, Pettis County R-V, Braymer C-4, LaMonte R-IV, Santa Fe R-10 and St. Peter Catholic School and played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape. His passion for learning extended far beyond the confines of the classroom, and he consistently inspired students to reach for their highest potential.
In the realm of sports, Gary was not just a coach but a mentor who instilled values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. He coached basketball, football, track and field, and softball teams with dedication and enthusiasm, leading his athletes to numerous victories both on and off the court/field, including an appearance at the state championship in 2002 with the Santa Fe boys’ basketball team. Gary had a rare ability to blend competitiveness with compassion, creating an environment where athletes not only excelled in their respective sports but also grew as individuals.
Beyond Gary’s professional accomplishments, Gary was known for his smile, warmth, sense of humor, and genuine care for others. Colleagues admired him for his leadership and collaborative spirit, and students cherished him for his unwavering support and encouragement.
Gary was an active member of St. Peter Catholic Church and served as a Deputy Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. Gary was very proud of his three children, Angie, Andy and Lance and their families. Whether it was talking about their athletic academic achievements, showing off beautiful pieces of artwork or pictures of their hunting/fishing experiences, Gary was happy to talk for hours about his grandchildren. He was a lifelong lover of dogs, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, spending time at the lake, watching ballgames of all kinds, reminiscing about coaching memories with his coaching buddies, growing tomatoes and jalapeno peppers and was a devoted member of Chiefs Kingdom.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents (Lee and Doris Littrell), his wife Linda and brother Larry.
Gary is survived by his wife Karen (Croy), children Angela Miller (Steve) of Weston, FL, Andrew Littrell of Chesapeake, VA, Lance Littrell (Emily) of Orlando, FL and eight grandchildren Maxwell Miller (Keiser University), Kolby Miller (Penn State University), Samuel Miller, Addyson Miller, Liam Littrell, Lex Littrell, Kali Littrell and Parker Littrell.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Marshall, with Fr. Francis Doyle officiating. Prayer service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home in Marshall with visitation following until 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Washington Cemetery in Glasgow, MO. Friends may sign the online register book at www.campbell-lewis.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Gary and Linda Littrell Scholarship Fund via Santa Fe Foundation, 108 W. 5th St., Alma, MO 64001 or to St. Peter Catholic School in Marshall, MO.