Gary Dean Edmiston

Gary Dean Edmiston, 84, of Odessa, Texas passed away on April 26, 2024.

Gary was born to William and Helen (Hill) Edmiston in Bowie, Texas on September 26, 1939. He grew up in Crane, Texas, where he developed his love for baseball and his passion for tennis. Gary graduated from Crane High School in 1958 and then attended North Texas State University where he played tennis. Gary found immense joy in his career as a banker in West Texas, becoming President of Security State Bank in 1979 and later becoming Chief Executive Officer. Gary also served proudly on the boards of the Independent Bankers Association of America and the Independent Bankers Association of Texas, serving as Chairman from 1998-1999. Gary retired from Security State Bank in 2005 but continued to work as a consultant for numerous West Texas banks and at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin Small Business Development Center. As accomplished as Gary was professionally, he was even more dedicated to his family. As a Dad, he was consistent and intentionally present. He always had time for fun activities, memory-making, or to offer help and wisdom when needed. He taught his children and grandchildren many lessons by his words and by his actions. He taught us how to love, how to work hard, and how to be independent. As a Grandad, his love was felt through his attention to the small details that made every day feel special. He also created countless memories for his grandchildren, whether it was spending hours riding bicycles, swimming in the summer, or building the best tree house in town. 

Gary was a devoted husband to Helen for 38 years, until her death, and then was devoted to Diana for 26 years.

Gary is preceded in death by his wife, Diana (Leaman) Edmiston, and Helen (Stell) Edmiston, parents, William and Helen Edmiston, and brother, William Edmiston, Jr. 

Gary is survived by his children, Christy Hodges and Michael (Mindy) Edmiston; grandchildren, Holly (Phillip) Bowman, Steven (Edie) Hickman, and Trinity Edmiston; and great-grandchildren, Collin and Hannah Bowman, Connor Hickman, and Maverick, Wyatt, and Dalton Torres. He is also survived by Joy Blicker and Samantha, sister, Cindy Molsbee, and many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 10:00 am. Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. To send family condolences please sign his guestbook at www.sunsetodessa.com.