Gary Neal Hurst, 79, of Waco, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

A graveside service will be 10:30 am, Friday, May 15th at Rosemound Cemetery in Waco.  A Visitation with the family will be from 5:30-7:30pm, Thursday, May 14th at Grace Gardens Funeral Home.

 Born on September 13, 1946, in Waco, Texas, Gary was the beloved son of James Frank Hurst and Ida Mae Broadway Hurst. A proud graduate of Richfield High School in Waco, Gary dedicated much of his career to serving others through hard work and commitment. He spent many years working at the family business, Bellmead Automotive, before later continuing his career at M&M Mars.

Gary was a devoted husband to Gail Hurst, with whom he shared 48 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a strong and loving family that remained at the center of his life.

A man of faith, Gary was a member of Top Hand Cowboy Church. He also proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, serving aboard the USS Coral Sea. His service and dedication were a source of pride throughout his life.

Gary was also deeply involved in his community, serving as a Past Master of M. Denton Stanford Lodge in Lorena, Texas. He was known for his love of hunting, his gift for storytelling, and his ability to connect with others wherever he went. His warmth, humor, and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Gail Hurst; his daughters, Holly Bennett and husband Douglas of Waco and Heather Bowdoin and husband Caleb of McGregor; his seven cherished grandchildren, Michael Bennett, Kathryn Bennett, Meredith Bennett, Christopher Bennett, Hayden Strahan, Wyatt Bowdoin, and Huck Bowdoin; his brother, Jim Hurst and wife Judy of Waco; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Gary will be remembered most for his unwavering love for family, his service to his country and community, and the countless stories and memories he shared with those he loved.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice, Top Hand Cowboy Church, or the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.