Gary Dean Floyd, 77, of Paris, passed away on January 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his devoted and loving family. A celebration of life luncheon in his honor is scheduled for February 28, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Pathway Church of God, officiated by Pastor Samuel Evers.
Born on March 18, 1948, in Paris, Texas, Gary was a lifelong resident of Lamar County. The son of the late Dempsey William Floyd and Velma Aleene Pettit Floyd of Pattonville and brother of the late Bobby John Floyd of Paris. He graduated from East Lamar High School and Paris Junior College. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Martha Karon Floyd and their two sons, Kasey Wayne Floyd and wife Becky, Jeffrey Wayne Floyd and wife Amy; four grandsons, Mason Miller, Jude Floyd, Beck Floyd, River Floyd; and one granddaughter, Kayden Floyd.
Gary was blessed with many talents and was never afraid to put them to the test. Over the years, he embraced various professions but found his true calling as one of Paris’s finest shoe cobblers, owner-operator of The Cobbler Shoppe on Lamar Ave from 1973 until retiring from the business in 2020. Not content to limit his talents, during that time he also opened Floyd’s Shipping, and Floyd’s Hobbies, where he shared his passion for radio-controlled airplanes and cars. In his earlier years, he worked as a licensed barber and even ran a carpet cleaning business at night. A true jack of all trades. Gary believed in the importance of self-reliance, often saying, “Why have someone else do something for me that I’m capable of doing for myself.” This life lesson was one he sought to instill in his sons, Kasey and Jeffrey.
He had a true passion for helping others and was always eager to lend a hand. Gary could regularly be found helping build and maintain the Paris Elks Lodge campgrounds, during the many family camping trips. Additionally, his love for football and basketball drove him to volunteer with the Noon Optimist and Boys and Girls Clubs, always ensuring that young athletes had the equipment they needed to succeed.
Gary enjoyed restoring antique cars, watching westerns, building fish aquariums, and all aspects of racing.
Above all, Gary cherished the family he built with the love of his life, Karon, and the moments he spent with his children and grandchildren.
As it is written in Proverbs 22:6 (NIV), “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Gary’s legacy of honor, strength, and service will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
The Floyd family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the friends and family members who have offered their love and support during this time. Gary “Pappy” Floyd will be sorely missed.
Celebration of Life luncheon
Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11:30 am
Pathway Church of God
3905 SE Loop 286
Paris, Texas 75460
