SMSgt (Ret) George "Gary" Browning

 SMSgt (Ret) George Gary Browning, USAF

February 6, 1951 – May 12, 2022

USAF Senior Master Sargent (ret) George Gary Browning passed away Thursday, May 12th, 2022, and is now in the arms of Jesus. He fought the last two months with bravery and determination, much like he did when serving in the United States Airforce. With a distinguished career in the military police field, he led others and trained many during his service to his country. He traveled the world during his service years but would always find his way back home to Florida.

Gary was born in Pipestone, Minnesota, where his family had settled for a few years during his dad’s minor league baseball career. He returned to Orlando at an early age and remained there until entering his military service. After 25 years in the Airforce, Gary and his wife Clydie returned to Orlando where he went back into the civilian workplace. He was a 911 Operator for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department until he retired a second time and moved to Laurel Hill, Florida in the Panhandle.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Clydie, daughters Tracey (Jeff) and Angel Geenen (Dale), and his son Stephen. As a blended family he is also survived by his stepdaughter Tammy Mason (William), and stepsons Clarence Hamill, Jr., and Roy Hamill.

Also surviving is his beloved mother, Dorothy, and siblings Reggie Browning (Andrea), Terri Gillis, and Shirley Moran. He was a proud grandfather (15) and great grandfather (6); and, he had countless nieces and nephews who he always made smile.

Gary was pre-deceased by his dad, Euel Leroy Browning, and his younger brother Jeff. The three of them have found that perfect fishing hole in heaven, along with a special father-in-law, Roy Alford, Jr, who became a best friend in his retirement years.

Gary never knew a stranger. His smile and laughter lit up every room he entered; and he could tell a story better than anyone. There was not a topic he did not know or have an answer for. We are sure that will continue to drive his brother Jeff crazy as they walk the streets of heaven picking their racing teams and enjoying conversation. Gary was an avid Nascar fan and loved his races. So much so, that he was known to hurry you out of his hospital room or off the phone when a race was due to start.

Gary knew his lord and savior and left this world for a promised place of peace, love, grace, and beauty. And as he gazes down on those who love him, he is praying that we find the same.

Rest in peace dear Gary and know that you will be in our hearts until we meet again.

Please join us in celebrating his life and thanking him for his military accomplishments and service:

Military Awards:

AF Achievement Medal, AF Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, AF Training Ribbon, AF Oversees Short Tour Ribbon (2), AF Oversees Long Tour Ribbon, Navy Expert Pistol Medal, Navy Expert Rifle Medal, National Defense Service Medal, AF Longevity Service Award, NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, AF Outstanding Unit Award, AF Outstanding Excellence Award, AF Good Conduct Medal. Served 1990-1996 in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm

Life Honors:

Son, brother, grandson, great grandson, nephew, cousin, husband, son-in-law, brother-in-law, father, father-in-law, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. And most importantly, follower of Jesus who blessed him with these life honors and eternity.

A time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 from 5:00-7:00pm at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 1:00pm at Whitehurst -Powell Funeral Home.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview.  Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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