Gary Lynn Cathey – A life well lived!

2 Kings 20:5 I have heard your prayers, and seen your tears; I will heal you.

Gary Cathey was born December 13, 1950 in Brownwood, Texas to William Roy Jr. and Evelyn Hayden Cathey. He had several moves before ending in Houston. His journey with Christ began in early 70s and always said salvation was the most life-changing impact on his life, as it should be for all of us. He worked for Exxon Mobil Baytown refinery as an electrician and worked his way up to became a senior procurement manager in Houston office. He retired from Exxon in January 2012. He went to work with Marathon Oil, for a six-week contract but it became a seven-year working experience, making friends, impacting lives by sharing his love of God, always working with excellence. He “retired” from Marathon May 2019. He married Denise Roesler Vessels November 1, 2008. Denise has attended Family Church of Houston since 1981, and Gary joined her in 2007. They were married November 1, 2008 – a new beginning for both of them. Gary served as an elder, prayer partner, encourager and often as security.

Gary’s home going leaves loving family and friends behind. His wife, Denise Vessels Cathey; daughter, Misty Robleto, and husband, Fernando from New York; son Shay Cathey, and wife Sara, from Virginia; daughters Mia Gonzalez of Houston, and Evie Lynn Mayhorn, husband, Zach, from San Antonio. Children-by-love - Stephen Vessels and wife, Karen, of Houston; Michelle Vessels Westbrook, and husband Joey, of Crosby Texas. Sisters Deanna Campbell, and Elaine Carpenter and her husband Bob, from Georgetown, Tx; and Karen Langseth, and husband, Mack of Brady Texas. Grand children: Margaux and Serena Robleto; Cole and Elle Cathey; Molly and William Gonzales; Margot Mayhorn; Devin Vessels; Claire, Cole and Lindsey Vessels.

Gary is predeceased by his father and loving mother, William Roy Cathey, Jr. and Evelyn Hayden, as well as all grandparents.

Gary had multiple hobbies and interests over his life, volunteering, and associations enjoyed: He perfected his bread-baking skill and baked often for others. He loved working in his yard, having been a former landscaper, and he had been a beekeeper. Gary enjoyed hunting (rifle and bow), fly fishing, archery, paddle boarding, and motorcycles but most of all, just serving others! He was an humble man, deep thinker, life loving, humorous man with a servant’s heart. He was involved with the Family Church ministry, The Table in the Wilderness; Andrizo Men’s Ministry, Grace Church-Humble, Tx. enjoying serving as a cook at each of the camps held; Gatekeepers Security Service, protecting God’s people; and a former Houston Livestock, Show and Rodeo Committeeman. Whatever he did, he did with excellence, ‘as unto the Lord.’

Gary served with the US Army, from August 1970 to June 1973, receiving an honorable discharge. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, two Bronze Service Stars and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was an Expert in rifle.

The family would like to thank all for the huge outpouring of prayers and love.

A life well lived is a precious gift
Of hope and strength and grace
From someone who has made our world
A brighter, better place
It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad
With smiles and sometimes tears,
With friendships formed in good times shared
And laughter through the years.
A life well lived as a legacy
Of joy and pride and pleasure,
A living lasting memory
Our grateful hearts will treasure
- author unknown

Reception following services at:
Toby & Connie Wooster
21719 Sunset View Dr.
Crosby, TX 77532.

Tuesday, February 9th
Burial at Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery - immediate family only. Flowers not allowed.

Please consider potted plant that can be given to various family members as a memory. However, most importantly is that Gary was involved with two important men ministries, and there would be deep appreciation if donations would be made to one of these wonderful groups.

Checks can be made payable to:
Denise Vessels
Memo ‘Andrizo’
P. O. Box 471
Huffman, Tx. 77336
This is direct to an Andrizo leader.

Online link to give to the Table Men’s Ministry:
“The Table in The Wilderness is a ministry designed to provide a Christ centered, compassionate, cost efficient program to men who are actively seeking freedom from chemical dependencies.”
Shelbygiving.com/app/giving/family-church
Give as a guest without registering an account
Select: Church Fund
Select Sub Fund: Table in the Wilderness

❤️ Thank you for loving us.