Gary Vernice Merrell

Gary Vernice Merrell, 64 of Portland, Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 20,2020.  Gary was born on October 1, 1955 in Mission, Texas to Roy and Margie Merrell.

Gary graduated from Gregory-Portland High School in 1974, where he played football and was the founder of the first Gregory-Portland Rodeo Club.  He rodeoed in college at SWTU and was a member of the Texas Trail Riders Association.

Gary married his High School sweetheart Renee James on September 27, 1975 and they raised three children together.  Gary owned and operated Merrell Lease Service in Gregory, Texas and dedicated much of his time to his career and providing for his family.  He spent his past time playing softball, flag football, hunting and fishing.

Gary was a hardworking man who was active in the San Patricio County Livestock Show for over 30 years where he served on the Show Board and Auction Committee.    He served as a School Board Member at GPHS and President of the Athletic Booster Club.  He enjoyed all sports, but especially GP Football. He loved raising steers with his kids and grandchildren and loved stock car racing with his son Matt.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother Margie Lea Merrell, father Charles Roy Merrell and infant son Charles Brandon Merrell.  He is survived by his wife Renee, daughter Shauna Zipprian (Anthony), Shelby Kubecka (Dwayne), son Matt Merrell (Kendra), his sister Debbie Harris and his 8 grandchildren: Preslee, Chase, Carly, Garrett, Kasen, Kale, McKynley and Jagger.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 23, 2020 from 2:00 PM-6:00 PM at Limbaugh Funeral Home in Portland. A Graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday April 24, 2020 at Palms Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Portland Texas.  In Lieu of flowers you can donate to the Coastal Bend Blood Center or Charity of your choice.