Garth Lamar Gregory

Garth Lamar Gregory, 88, of Girard, Texas, also known as “PawPaw” to his favorite people, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025, after a short illness.

Garth was a hardworking man whose life was rooted in faith, family, and the land he cared for. He spent his days dedicated to farming and cattle—a calling he poured his heart into. Whether in the field or behind a desk, Garth found purpose and pride in the work he did.

He graduated from Girard ISD in 1955 as Valedictorian of his class. After a short time working in Lubbock, he returned to Girard to begin the farming and ranching career that continued until his death, spanning a total of 68 years. Garth held many different titles and positions throughout his life, including Kent County Judge, Kent County Chief Tax Appraiser, member of the Girard ISD School Board, Jayton-Girard ISD School Board, Region 17 ESC, Water Conservation District, Dickens Electric, South Plains Electric, Tax Appraisal Board, and WCT Council of Government.

Nothing brought him more joy than being with “his crew.” He cherished every moment spent with them—sharing laughter, stories, and the simple everyday moments that meant the most to him. Garth was known to many as a storyteller who never met a stranger. He was a longtime member of the Jayton Church of Christ.

Garth married the love of his life, Alta Jean, on June 14, 1957. Together they built a family of 68 years rooted in love and strength. He is survived by his brother Ronnie Gregory; his daughters Tricia Coffey (Mike) and Penny Nelson (Russ); his grandchildren Clay Jackson, Kayla Rosado (Lisa), Cody Nelson (Jessica), Keelie Johnston (Garrett), Jeff Coffey (Stefanie), and Jessica Moore (Brady); and his great-grandchildren Mikey, Tatum, Braxton, Zandar, Shepherd, Jaci, Brylee, Berkleigh, and Easton. He is also survived by bonus daughters Donna Carr and Teresa Marley, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at the Jayton Church of Christ on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 1 p.m.

Visitation will be held at Zapata Funeral Home on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 5–7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lubbock Children’s Home, White River Youth Camp, or your favorite charity.

PawPaw will be remembered for the love he gave, the wisdom he shared, and the legacy he leaves behind.