Gary Charles Frierson

Gary Charles Frierson passed away on Monday evening, January 5, 2026. He lived as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and patriot, and he built his life on integrity, sacrifice, and steady strength.

Gary married the love of his life, Cheryl Lynn Muzny, on February 14, 1970. Together, they built a home rooted in commitment, faith, and family. Cheryl preceded him in death on January 4, 2024, and Gary honored her memory with enduring love and devotion. Gary now rests in the hope of eternal life, reunited with Cheryl, whom he loved deeply.

Gary is survived by his son, Gary Charles Frierson Jr., and his wife, Kimberly Ann Frierson; and by his daughter, Penelope “Penny” Lynn Frierson. He was a proud grandfather to Annabelle and Chance, children of Gary Jr. and Kimberly, and to Rowdy, Penny’s son. He is also survived by his brothers, Thomas Frierson and Lance Frierson, and by Lance’s wife, Debbie Frierson. Gary also leaves behind his niece and nephews Keith Thomas Frierson, Brandon Lee Frierson, Nathan Noffsinger, Taggart Horton, and Rebecca Horton, who will miss him dearly.

Gary was also preceded in death by his parents, Charles Milton Frierson and Lillian Frierson.

Gary served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He carried that service with humility and rarely spoke of it, yet his quiet courage and love of country shone through his life. He belonged to the VFW, received care through the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, and he and Cheryl gave their time and support to veterans’ causes throughout their lives.

After military service, Gary built a remarkable 37-year career at Exxon in Electrical and Instrumentation maintenance. He earned a reputation for intellect, problem solving, diligence, and leadership. Over the years, he served as a supervisor, turnaround supervisor, turnaround planner, and project planner, and gained deep respect and affection from coworkers. In an accomplishment that spoke to his grit and reliability, Gary worked 37 years without taking a single sick day or missing work due to injury.

Gary valued education and proudly put both of his children through college. He coached his children in baseball and softball, served in leadership roles at the local Little League, and stayed closely involved in family life. He remained present for dinners and activities, and he poured his time and attention into the people he loved.

Gary enjoyed fishing and hunting when time allowed, and he often shared those adventures with his son. He loved sports, especially the Houston Oilers and Texans, the Astros, and Texas A&M and University of Texas football. He enjoyed classic country music, along with American standards and artists such as Billy Joel, Don McLean, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. He never smoked and never used drugs. He lived simply, sought no recognition, and carried himself with uncommon humility and strength.

Gary was raised Protestant and later converted to Catholicism to align with his wife and family. He was active at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in the Channelview and Baytown area and served with the Knights of Columbus, including leadership roles during his children’s youth.

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM CST at Waltrip Funeral Directors, 1415 Campbell Road, Houston, Texas. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM CST, also at Waltrip Funeral Directors. Burial will follow at 2:30 PM CST at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, 815 St. Mary’s Church Road, Ellinger, Texas, where Gary will be laid to rest beside Cheryl and receive military honors.