Gary "Pepaw" Prather

February 13,1947 – August 19, 2025

Gary “Pepaw” Don Prather, 78, of Amarillo, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home. A celebration of Gary’s life will follow on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home, Chapel of Memories, 6969 E. Interstate 40, Amarillo.

Gary was born on February 13, 1947, to Polly and Gene Prather. He attended Palo Duro High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he worked for many years at Western National Life’s print shop and later spent 25 years as a file clerk at the Department of Veterans Affairs before retiring.

On June 22, 1968, Gary married the love of his life, Juanita “Memaw” Puente. Together they shared 57 wonderful years filled with laughter, teasing, and devotion. Juanita often joked that she married Gary because she just couldn’t get rid of him—and because he was always with his best friend, “Pancho.” Together they built a home and a legacy centered on love, humor, and family.

Known affectionately as “Pepaw,” Gary was beloved not only by his grandchildren but by anyone welcomed into the family circle. He was a familiar face at countless sporting events, cheering proudly from the stands. Outside of family gatherings, Gary enjoyed trips to the casino, caring for his lawn, and relaxing in his recliner with a favorite show. He loved music, valued his quiet time, and was famous for ending phone calls with his signature line: “I have to go, my ear hurts,” before promptly hanging up.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Janie Prather; two daughters, Donna Stratton and Mary Barbarino and husband Leonard; his sister, Alice Houston; his brother-in-law, “Pancho” Manuel Puente Jr. and wife Rosie; his sister-in-law, Jovita Prieto; five grandchildren, Brandi Bichard and husband Anthony, Shani Chase and husband Steven, Rocky Kenyon and wife Shaley, Bryndan Prieto, and Seth Barbarino; numerous great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and a large extended family and many dear friends who cherished him as their own.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Polly and Gene Prather; his in-laws, Maria and Manuel Puente; his brothers-in-law, Larry Houston, Lupe Puente, Frankie Puente, and Charles Prieto; and his sons-in-law, Peter Prieto, and Doug Stratton.

Gary will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his humor, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.