Obituary: Sgt. Gary R. Slaton, U.S. Army retired

A memorial service for Gary R. Slaton, 63, Athens is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday at Bethel Christian Church with Rev. Jim Rawlins officiating.

Sgt. Slaton died March 6, 2013 at home.

He was born July 15, 1949 in Athens to the late Taylor Columbus and Lillian Marguerite Clampitt Slaton. Following graduation from Athens High School in 1967, Gary attended Henderson County Junior College then later earned a Bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University. He served a 30-year tenure with the United States Military retiring from the Army in 1999. He was recipient of numerous medals and ribbons including the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Mr. Slaton taught Texas History at Athens Intermediate School for eight years. For the past 12 years he was co-owner of Slaton Paint and Body Shop. He was a member of Bethel Christian Church. Gary loved writing songs and playing the guitar.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Don Slaton and sister Betty Sue Slaton.

Survivors include wife of 35 years Charlotte Slaton; son Randall Slaton and wife Hollie, Athens; daughter Ricarda Hunter and husband Don, Berryville; brothers Kenneth Slaton, Athens, Norman “Dommer” Slaton and wife Dianna, Malakoff; sisters Fern Fowler and husband Gerald, Brownsboro, Gwenda Billups and husband Don, Tyler; grandchildren Joseph Splawn, Colton Hunter, Shiann Hunter; numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend deep gratitude to Dr.Ted Mettetal and Bristol Pathways Hospice for the love and care given to Gary during his illness.

You may leave a message of condolence or light a memorial candle for the family at www.carroll-lehr.com.