Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Hopkins Waldron, with whom he shared more than 50 years of marriage. A steady presence to those who knew him, Gary built a life marked by devotion to family, quiet conviction, and enduring interests that reflected both discipline and curiosity. He loved the Lord and recognized the importance of living a Christ-centered life.
He is survived by his daughters, Stephanie Cooper (Patrick) and Katie Shull (Jason), and by his grandchildren, Vivien Benson (Kyle), Margaret Arnold (Eddie), Miles Cooper (Mariah), Natalie Shull, and Mary Shull. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Edward Arnold IV and Lydia Cooper. Gary is further survived by his brothers, Richard Waldron (Meg) and Adam Waldron (Meg), and his sister, Julie Shaw (Jim).
Gary's professional life included various roles that suited his careful attention to detail and his respect for knowledge. He earned a B.A. in Political Science from American University, reflecting a lifelong engagement with history, civic life, and the wider world.
Gary was an avid gun collector and military history enthusiast. He had a passion for ancient and rare artifacts, books, or physical relics of the past. He participated in reenactments and was a lifetime member of the Tennessee Military Collectors Association and the NRA. His interest in history also led him to unique experiences, including reenacting battle scenes in the film Glory and participating in a Gettysburg documentary.
Gary loved to travel and carried that interest beyond reading and research into the world itself. He traveled to Israel, Greece, Germany, and across America to gain a firsthand understanding of the places and events that shaped the stories he valued. He also rooted for Virginia Tech in college sports, keeping a connection to home and tradition.
In faith and fellowship, Gary was a member of Central Church in Collierville. He was part of the Galileans group at Central Church, where he found community, friends, and shared purpose.
Gary will be remembered with respect and gratitude — for his steadfast love of family, his thoughtful mind, and the enduring passions that gave his life its distinctive character.
