Gary Edward Barfield age 79, of Pasadena, passed away on August 25, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Trina. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; daughter, Tiffany, and her husband, Alexander Stephens, of Sarasota, Florida; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Roberta and George Eddington of Huntsville, Texas; sister-in-law, Bets West of Austin, Texas; and several nieces and a nephew.

There were two constants in Gary's life: Pasadena, the place he called home his entire life, and football, a lifelong passion that brought him tremendous joy.

Gary played football at Pasadena High School and continued his career at Sam Houston State University, where injuries brought his collegiate football career to an early end. He then answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy and serving in forward combat positions in Vietnam as a Radioman. Following his military service, Gary completed his education at the University of Houston, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.

After college, Gary built a successful career in industrial and commercial sales for nearly a decade before moving into wine and spirits sales. He spent the next 22 years representing several major national distributors, covering countless miles of sales territory and building lasting relationships along the way.

His commitment to others extended well beyond his professional life. Gary served on the board of parents for the Thomas Care Center and was a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. He even traveled to Austin to testify before the Texas Legislature on their behalf.

And, of course, there was football.

That love came full circle when his daughter Tiffany attended Texas A&M University. Gary followed every game with unwavering devotion, whether by scratchy radio broadcasts, television, or phone calls from friends providing updates. His Aggie pride was unmistakable. He was rarely seen without something maroon and white on.

Gary was also deeply committed to his fellow Veterans. He was an active member of his Texas City P.T.S.D. group and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), where he especially enjoyed the fellowship, camaraderie, and meetings with his fellow Veterans.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those wishing to honor Gary make a donation in his memory to the National Down Syndrome Society , an organization whose mission was deeply meaningful to him and his family.

The family would especially like to thank Frank Gonzales, Gary's physical therapist whose care, friendship, and kindness brought light and critical support to Gary's life. The family also extends its deepest gratitude to the leadership team, doctors, nurses, caregivers, and entire staff of the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center for their compassion and care.

The service honoring Gary's life will be held at 11:00am, Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Peevey Funeral Home, 12440 Beamer Road, Houston, Texas 77089, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow the service at Houston National Cemetery at 1:15pm.