Gary Lee Christy

Gary was born on July 9, 1947 in Kansas City, Missouri and was the son of P.M. and Hazel Christy. He attended Rollins Elementary School, graduated from Westport High School in 1965 and obtained his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Baker University in 1969. Gary pursued a lifelong career as an educator having obtained his high school and elementary teaching certification from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and his master’s degree in education from Baker University.

Gary married the love of his life, Bonnie June Fischer, on August 6, 1977. He was a proud and loving father to Tammy, Todd and Scott and a devoted grandfather to Alison, Emma, Branton, Myla and Violet. Gary provided boundless love and support to his family - cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. He would brag to anyone who would listen about his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments.

A second-grade teacher at Brookside Day School and Symington Accelerated Elementary School, Gary retired from leading the classroom in 2008 and continued his work in education as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher before retiring in 2020. He loved being a teacher and touched the lives of countless students during his career. The outpouring of kind words and memories from his students and co-educators in the months preceding his death meant the world to him.

Gary was a steadfast and loyal friend to many. He was a kind, giving and generous soul who left an indelible mark on all who knew and loved him. Gary had many hobbies including bowling, fishing, square dancing, US Civil War history, genealogy, fantasy football and collecting sports memorabilia. He enjoyed traveling with Bonnie as well as his many baseball trips with his friends to attend spring training and professional and minor league games across the country. Gary was an avid sports fan who loved cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and above all the Kansas City Royals.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant brother Terry Wayne Christy.

Gary is survived by his wife Bonnie, children Tammy Bachman (Andy), Todd Christy, Scott Gipson (Melanie) and grandchildren, Alison Bachman, Emma Bachman, Branton Christy, Myla Christy and Violet Gipson as well as numerous other dear family and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 2:00 o’clock p.m. at Newcomer’s Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri with burial in Floral Hills Cemetery. Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation or Baker University.