Profile photo of Gary Donald Gifford

Gary Donald Gifford

JulJuly 3rd, 1944 • AprApril 5th, 2026
College Place, Washington
Gary Donald Gifford

In honor of a life that left footprints of love.

Obituary

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Gary, who was born on July 3rd, 1944 and passed away on April 5th, 2026 in College Place, Washington .

Gary will be remembered for kindness, generosity, and the quiet ability to bring people together. Family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues all experienced the warmth and sincerity that made time spent with Gary meaningful.
Throughout life, Gary built lasting connections and touched many lives through simple acts of care, encouragement, and friendship. Conversations, shared moments, and everyday gestures created memories that will remain with those who had the privilege of knowing Gary.
Family meant a great deal to Gary, and relationships were always nurtured with patience and devotion. Friends valued loyalty and sincerity, while colleagues appreciated dedication and a thoughtful approach to work and collaboration.

The passing of Gary leaves a space that cannot be filled. Yet the memories, lessons, and moments shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know Gary.
Gary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Timeline

1944
Born
White Memorial Hospital
Glendale, Calif.
1963
Graduated
Lodi Academy
Lodi, Calif.
1966
Married
Jerri Jacklyn Koenig
Lodi, Calif.
1967
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion
Pacific Union College
Angwin, Calif.
1969
Master of Divinity Degree
Andrews University 
Berrien Springs, Mich.
1971
Lead Pastor
Victorville Seventh-day Adventist Church
Victorville, Calif.
1975
Teacher - Bible & Speech
San Pasqual Academy
Escondido, Calif.
1979
Teacher - Bible & Speech
Hawaiian Mission Academy
Honolulu, Hawaii
1982
Principal
Chisholm Trail Academy
Keene, Texas
1986
Doctorate in Education
La Sierra College
Riverside, Calif.
1986
Principal
Virgil Hauselt Memorial Junior Academy
Santa Cruz, Calif.
1988
Director - Recruitment
Pacific Union College
Angwin, Calif.
1994
Associate Vice President - Academic Administration
Pacific Union College
Angwin, Calif.
2000
Lead Pastor
Village Adventist Church
Berrien Springs, Mich.
2002
Associate Vice President - Academic Administration 
Andrews University 
Berrien Springs, Mich.
2008
Retirement 
Moved to Loma Linda, Calif.
2022
Relocated
College Place, Wash.
2026
Died
College Place, Wash.

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In honor of our beloved Gary, we invite you to contribute to a cause that was near and dear to their heart. Your generous donation will serve as a meaningful tribute, perpetuating the spirit of Gary by supporting a meaningful cause.
Together, let us continue the legacy of compassion and kindness that Gary embodied throughout their life.
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