Gary Owen Breckenridge passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving family in DeLand, Florida.

Gary was born in Valdosta, Georgia on February 6, 1947.  He was the son of Forrest and Mamye Breckenridge.  They moved to DeLand when Gary was in the 4th grade.  Gary graduated from DeLand High School in the class of 1965.  He was president of his class and starting quarterback of the football team.  Gary graduated from Valdosta State College with a degree in Business.  After graduating, he moved back to DeLand to pursue his career as a Project Control manager in the Industrial Engineering industry.

Gary met the love of his life, Linda, in the 9th grade and were together ever since.  They married in 1967 and were married for 59 years.  

Gary and Linda lived in Lakeland, Florida for 49 years where they raised two children, Michael & Kimberly.  They moved back to DeLand in 2019.

Gary embraced a vibrant retirement filled with traveling, cruises, time with his wife, family and friends. He still organized class reunions and get togethers.  You could catch him at the Elusive Grape almost every Friday night.  He loved to socialize.  

Gary adored his children and his grandchildren.  He made time and showed up for all of the important and not-so-important events in each of their lives.  Gary was so caring, never met a stranger, and approached life lightheartedly.  He was always being witty and funny in most everything he did.  The close friends and family relationships he had were a testament to his character. 

A devoted community member, Gary volunteered with PAL, was a member of the Rotary club, Sons of the American Revolution, and Kiwanis Club.

Gary is survived by his wife Linda; his children, Michael Breckenridge (Elizabeth), Kimberly Skiles (Scott); his grandchildren, Kelsy Moore (Matthew), Landon Breckenridge (Katherine), Layton Breckenridge, and Jordan Acevedo; his brother Don Breckenridge, his sister Lisa Potchen (Dave) and many extended family members and friends who cherished his warmth and generosity. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Mamye Breckenridge, and his brother Ben Breckenridge.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Elusive Grape in DeLand, 129 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand, FL 32720, from 2 pm-5 pm

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Gary’s memory to the DeLand Police Athletic League (PAL).  www.delandpal.com