Gary Francis Holden's Obituary
Gary Francis Holden, well known Vinita resident and business owner, passed away at his home early Tuesday, July 19, 2016 after an illness. He was surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was 79 years old. Gary was born on April 23, 1937 to Todd Holden and Leona (Highley) Holden. He grew up in the Quapaw, OK area. He attended Baxter Springs High School, and as a teenager, he joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country and received his High School diploma. On July 23, 2005, Gary was united in marriage to Tammy Yarbrough. He owned and operated Vinita Gun & Pawn for over 30 years and was a member of the American Legion Dale Peace Post 40 of Vinita. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Phyllis Baker. He is survived by his wife, Tammy, of the home; 1 daughter, Cindy Bushyhead and husband Tim of Vinita; 2 sons, Troy Holden and wife Margaret of McKinney, TX, and Gary Holden Jr. of Vinita; 3 stepsons; Trent Yarbrough and Melissa of Vinita, Tyler Yarbrough and Jennie, also of Vinita, and Brandon Reed and Candace of Chelsea, OK; 2 stepdaughters, Sandy Black and Barry of Waynesville, OH, and Jessica Osburn and John of Vinita; 1 sister, Suzie Pollard of West Branson, MO; 5 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and 12 step-grandchildren; special friends, Al and Virginia Roberts of Tulsa, OK, as well as an additional host of close friends. Gary's life will be celebrated and friends will be received from noon to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at the family home located at 524 North Brown in Vinita. Pastor Justin Turner will lead the celebration.
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