Gary Lee Abramson

Gary Lee Abramson, 77, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 after a battle with cancer.  Services will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 10:00 AM in the chapel of Hillside Christian Church West Campus, 6100 S. Soncy, Amarillo, Texas.

Gary was born in Spokane, Washington on October 4, 1947 and graduated from high school in Cherokee, Iowa in 1966.  Always an athlete, Gary participated in golf and volleyball at Graceland College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in religion.  Pursuing his natural passion, he received a master’s degree from Central Missouri State University in Kinesiology (Physical Education) and headed to Texas after accepting a position as head volleyball coach at WTAMU. Soon thereafter he became the director of Kids, Inc. where he actively led the way as “The Big Kid” for twelve years.  Gary played, coached and influenced the growth and sport of volleyball in the Amarillo area, in many aspects, including additions to youth sports programs, private lessons, and club volleyball.  A lifetime lover of golf, Gary spent his last years on the golf course with his son and grandsons.

Gary married Debbie Wright in 1972 and they were best friends for 52 years. They had two children, Heather and Todd, who eagerly joined them in a fun-loving, active, faith-filled home, serving throughout their church and community.  Gary was full of energy in all that he did, always helpful and putting others first.  He was a competitive volleyball player and beloved coach, as well as an avid golfer.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Lee Abramson, and mother, Betty Abramson. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Abramson; his daughter, Heather Villasenor and her husband Almeida and their four sons; his son, Todd Abramson and his wife Kindra and their three sons. These seven grandsons adored their grandfather and he thought they hung the moon.  He was tremendously loved and will be greatly missed.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the love and support of family, friends and both Hillside Christian Church and Messiah’s House.