Obituary of Gary Wayne Sorrells

Gary, affectionately known as “Big Daddy” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, went to his heavenly home on July 4, 2019, at 73 years young.

Gary was born July 10, 1945 in Pittsburg, Texas, to Rachel and Billy Sorrells.  Growing up, he lived in Houston, Gladewater, and Liberty City, Texas.  After moving to Liberty City, he attended Sabine High School where he was quarterback of the football team and his senior year, he was a member of the State Champion Golf Team. After graduating high school in 1964, he attended the University of Houston where he earned a Chemical Engineering degree. Before his retirement, Gary worked for many years in the refining industry.

Gary’s career took him to many cities and countries throughout his life. He was an avid golfer and loved being a member of the Eagle’s Bluff Country Club in Bullard. He loved to travel with his family to Destin, Florida. He was also a proud member of the Southside Baptist Church in Tyler.

At the age of 64, Gary was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but always maintained a gentle and kind spirit.

Gary is survived by his wife of 26 years, Sandra “Sandie” Sorrells; his mother, Rachel Sorrells of Tyler; sister, Debbie Kemp of Winters, Texas; daughters, Gay Lynne Sorrells of Lake Charles, LA, and Penney Christian and husband, Chris of Georgetown, Texas; son, David Sorrells and wife, Heidi of Lake Charles, LA; step-sons, Preston Jensen and wife, Christine of Baton Rouge, LA, and Royce Jensen and wife, Tori of Des Allemands, LA.  His grandchildren include: Hayley Naverette, Amber Keyes, Kendall Stanley, Sydnee Stanley, Jacob Bryan, Kaia Sorrells, Kaenon Sorrells, Melah Jensen, Campbell Christian, and Kashton Sorrells.  He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren.

Gary was proceeded in death by his father, Billy Wayne Sorrells of Bullard.

A Celebration of Life for Gary will take place 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 2019 at the Ebenezer Friendship Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Pittsburg, Texas.  Prior to the Celebration of Life there will be a private family graveside service at 10:00 am.  We are encouraging causal and comfortable attire.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County Make a Donation, 211 Winchester Drive, Tyler, TX 75701, 903.509.8323.

To view online obituary, go to www.ermansmithfuneralhome.com