Gary Robert Stodola

Gary Robert Stodola, age 76, of Granbury, Texas, entered eternal rest on July 12th, 2026. Gary was born on April 18, 1950 in Tokyo, Japan. He was the son of Roland W. Stodola and Rose (Schultz). At the time, his father was stationed in Japan serving in the Army. As an Army brat, Gary and his siblings lived in many locations throughout his childhood, including Ft. Ord, Ft. Bliss, Ft. Sill and Germany. Gary served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Altus AFB in Oklahoma as a Cargo Master.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Roland W. Stodola, Rose Self and his brother Dwight Stodola. Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Cecelia; his brothers, Roland (wife Peggy) and Tim (wife Denise); and his sister, Jacqueline (husband John Pisanich). Gary is also survived by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

In 1976, his journey took a pivotal turn when he met his beloved wife Cece while working at OG&E in Muskogee, OK. In the late 1970’s they made commitment vows to each other solidifying their bond. They later celebrated their official union among family and friends on March 7, 1987, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey of love and partnership. The couple lived in Stephenville, TX working for Comanche Peak and later settled in Carrollton, TX, where they built a wonderful life surrounded by family and friends for over 30 years.

Throughout his career Gary wore many hats, but his most impactful role was a Safety Manager, for Global Engineering in offshore drilling. His position took he and Cece around the world, giving them opportunity to travel and experience places many only dream of seeing, including extended residences in Dubai, Scotland and South Korea for 8 years. Yet, after all those journeys, the place he most looked forward to was home.

Pecan Plantation was the community he had always dreamed of retiring. He and Cece were blessed to spend 10 years there together, making a home and enjoying the life they had worked so hard to build.

Gary was an avid reader with a particular interest in history, he enjoyed watching Dallas Cowboys games as well as classic John Wayne movies. He loved driving around the community in his golf cart and meeting up with friends at the dog park to let their sweet fur babies play with friends. He was known for frequently visiting his favorite local comfort food eateries—Stumpy’s, Grump’s, Pam’s and the famous gas station burritos. He truly loved this vibrant community.

Gary will be remembered for his teasing sense of humor, his quick wit, adventurous nature and being deeply devoted to the life and people he loved. His memory will live on in the stories we tell, the laughter he brought, the many adventures and quiet moments that made his life his own.

Gary Robert Stodola (4/18/1950-7/12/2026)

← All Obituaries