08/24/2026
Gary Spring, age 91, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026. He was born in Apple Springs, Texas, on October 1, 1934, to Wayne Milledge Spring and Evie Delle Odom Spring and was the sixth of their seven children.
Gary earned his degree in Accounting from Stephen F. Austin State University, where he was a member of the Lumberjack track and field team and the SFA Sawyers. Following his service in the United States Army, Gary married Greta Jean Poteet. They shared 58 years of marriage before her passing in 2017.
Gary and Greta made their home in Center, Texas, from 1962 until 2000. During those 37 years, Gary worked as a member of the management team at Center Plywood. In 2000, they moved to Houston to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Gary spent the final five years of his life in Kingsland, Texas, where he was once again close to his children and family.
Gary devoted countless hours to coaching his children’s softball, basketball, and baseball teams, investing his time and energy in teaching, and supporting young athletes. He was also an active member of the athletic booster club and proudly served as its president.
Beyond athletics, Gary was dedicated to serving his community. He was a longtime member of the Lions Club, where he served in numerous capacities, including president. He was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Center.
Gary’s greatest legacy, however, lives on through his family. He is survived by:
Children:
Gaye Pickering and husband Sammy
Gina Jones and husband Casey
Gary Spring Jr. and wife Krista
Grandchildren:
Lucas Pickering
David Pickering
Loren Higgs
Zackary Jones
Jackson Jones
Garrison Spring
Grant Spring
Graylan Spring
Great-granddaughter, Hailey Higgs
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Greta, in 2017; his grandson, Graylan, in 2023; and his six siblings: Gilbert Spring, Glenora Spring, Wayne Milledge Spring Jr., Gerry Spring Chichester, Gilmer Spring, and Garner Spring.
Gary will be remembered for his steady character, generous heart, love of family, and lifelong commitment to his community. He quietly invested in the lives of those around him, whether through his family, his work, his church, or the young athletes he coached and encouraged. His legacy will continue through the generations of his family and the many lives he touched along the way.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Gary’s memory to the Graylan Spring Foundation.
