July 29, 1943 – March 10, 2025
Gary Russell Handy, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on March 10, 2025, in Friendswood, Texas, at the age of 82
Gary was born on July 29, 1943, in San Diego, California, to Glenn Russell Handy and Mildred Handy (Tenney). He attended Florence Elementary in San Diego and later San Diego High School, where he began a lifelong love of learning and sports. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Long Beach State and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston, Massachusetts. On May 24, 1968, Gary married Linda Lee McDonald Glenn, and she was at his side when he passed in their home.
A public servant and legal professional, Gary worked as a sheriff for Los Angeles County and later practiced law in both Boston and San Diego, serving his community and clients with dedication and compassion. Early in his life, he also served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Florida and Texas—a period that exemplified his faith, humility, and devotion to others. A thoughtful biblical scholar, Gary’s breadth of scriptural knowledge was rarely matched and deeply enriched the lives of those who learned from him.
Gary was a man of intelligence, humor, and unwavering kindness. He was a devoted fan of both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Celtics and amazed all who knew him with his depth of sports trivia and encyclopedic knowledge. He was also deeply fond of his dogs, Lady and Phoebe—who both preceded him in death—and Ember, who remained faithfully by his side. Above all, Gary cherished his time with family, valuing every conversation, meal, and shared laugh.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Handy (McDonald Glenn); his children, Russell Handy (wife Rhonda), Victoria Handy (Wolfgramm) (husband Phil), Jacob Handy (wife Mandy), Melinda Handy (Belmodis) (husband Dwayne), Joshua Handy, and Mark Handy (wife Christy); his brothers, Keith Handy and David Handy; and his sisters, Lanigene Handy (Green), LeiAnne Handy (Ward), and Deborah Handy (Morris). He is also survived by more than 30 grandchildren and more than 40 great-great-grandchildren (although that number seems to swell monthly), who will carry on his legacy with love, respect, and gratitude. Because of Gary’s open arms and great love, many more also called him brother, father or grandfather, beyond the conventional categories.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Russell Handy and Mildred Handy (Tenney) and two older brothers, Larry and Leonard Handy.
Gary will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous spirit, and gentle humor that brightened every room he entered. He was beloved by all who knew him, and his memory will remain a blessing to those whose lives he touched. To know him was to love him. He will be dearly missed.
Friends and family are cordially invited to the Funeral Service held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 505 Deseret Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546 on Saturday, April 4, 2026 with visitation at 12:00 p.m. and the service starting at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow at Forest Park East Cemetery, 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598.
11 thoughts on “Gary Russell Handy”
He is dearly missed. But i have my memories of a dear friend. And as Gary would say. A Brother from another Mother
Goodbye my wonderful friend you brightened every room you were in and every life you touched. No words can describe how sorry I am and condolences and love to Linda and all of your wonderful kids, grandkids great great grandkids.b
The best Grandpa there ever was 😭🤍 He will be sorely missed. Will miss him until we meet again 🙏🏼
One of the kindest most loving people I have ever had the privilege to know. Although it has been 30 years or more it feels like yesterday when we worked together. You made me laugh every day and I have so many funny memories thanks to you.
My love and condolences to your Linda and your wonderful kids and grandkids and great grandkids. You will be missed forever
Gary, gregarious generous and genius. Ofa atu uncle!
Remarkable man in so many ways. I always said sitting in a class he was teaching was like sitting in front of a fire hose of information. Doctrine, history and interesting facts coming at you so fast you couldnt take it in. Brilliant. Photographic memory. And what a treat to sit near him in church and hear him sing. Loud and clear. Worshipping the Lord through song. A big man. A brilliant man. A unique and wonderful man. A blessing to have known him.
Remarkable man in so many ways. I always said sitting in a class he was teaching was like sitting in front of a fire hose of information. Doctrine, history and interesting facts coming at you so fast you couldnt take it in. Brilliant. Photographic memory. And what a treat to sit near him in church and hear him sing. Loud and clear. Worshipping the Lord through song. A big man. A brilliant man. A unique and wonderful man. A blessing to have known him.
My family has been richly blessed to have known such a Christ-like soul, and I imagine Brother Gary Handy is already happily teaching great wisdom and light up in paradise to a privileged crowd of ancestors and old and new friends, with a few dear puppies in his arms. All our love to the whole Handy family 💗
I’m one of the lucky ones that called him “Grandpa Handy” since I was 15 years old. He stayed a constant in my life ever since. I have many memories and conversations with him that I will always hold close to my heart. He was truly a gem. He had a big heart and would brighten every room he was in with his cheerful, accepting, and loving presence. Thinking of his family and dear ones as they navigate life without him at this time. He is truly missed.
You did your Dad proud A fine job Russell!
Uncle Leonard’s family has asked me to share this. We are sorry we are not able to be there with you today. Our hearts are saddened at the loss of Uncle Gary. While we rarely lived near Uncle Gary and Aunt Linda, our Dad loved his “little” brother, and we have felt that family connection through our Dad and later by being friends with Uncle Gary on Facebook. His love of cars, John Wayne, and especially the Lord, was so evident in his posts. We know our Dad is among those who have lovingly welcomed Uncle Gary home. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with you today and always.