Gary Dean Caffey's Obituary
Gary Dean Caffey
October 22, 1944 – October 16, 2025
Gary Dean Caffey, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed on October 16, 2025, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, just shy of his 81st birthday.
Born in Hulbert, Oklahoma, on October 22, 1944, to Burrell Newt and Mary Magdalene (Maxville) Caffey, Gary lived a life marked by dedication, ingenuity, purpose and love. A proud Vietnam veteran, he served his country in the U.S. Air Force, before attending the Spartan School of Aeronautics, where he developed many skills that would aid him throughout his life and career. He also had several other jobs and small businesses along the way to his eventual entrepreneurial career.
On July 18, 1986, Gary married the love of his life, Janice, in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Their bond was one of deep devotion and Gary showed his love by working endlessly to ensure she had everything she needed or wanted, a testament to his generous spirit and enduring affection.
Family was the heartbeat of Gary’s world—whether he was playing cards or chess, traveling to cheer on his grandchildren at softball tournaments and football games, or just relaxing while fishing. Gary was a man of few words but many passions—playing guitar, watching football, and being the ultimate handyman. There was nothing that he could not fix, repair or build from scratch. And he did it all with open arms and a smile. Gary demanded the best from himself first, always leading by example. To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Papa,” a title he wore with pride and tenderness.
Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Janice Caffey; children Deborah Jane Golden (James), Gary Charles Caffey (Debi), Jeffrey Reed, and Julie Stabler (James); grandchildren Phillip Tyler Lannen, Hailey Nicole Lannen (fiancé Cameron Annesley), Sheridan Denton (Alex), Keyleigh Clothier (Kyler) and Ashley Sullivan; great-grandchildren Anabell, Vera, Ansem, Everli, Millie, and Baby Gardner, expected in January 2026; numerous nieces and nephews; and his cherished four-legged companion, Prissy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Burrell and Mary Caffey; siblings Wayne, Ellen, Frances, Ramona, and Randy; and grandson Chase Sullivan.
Private family services will be held to honor Gary’s life. His legacy of love, craftsmanship, and unwavering support will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest easy, Papa. You were truly extraordinary.
In lieu of, flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Multiple Myeloma Association
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