Galen O. McCrary

Galen O. McCrary, 84, of Tecumseh, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 14, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born September 17, 1939, in Lubbock, TX, the son of Orby and Gladys Faye (Britton) McCrary. 

He graduated high school in 1957 in Kendall, KS. On April 20, 1958 he married the love of his life, Mary Louise Gropp in Syracuse, KS. They were married 66 years and together they raised three children; Kelly, Gail & Troy.

Galen was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone & AT&T in Topeka, KS for 23 years, retiring in 1990.

He enjoyed an active lifestyle that included playing bluegrass music, shuffleboard, square dancing, fishing, hunting, farming, and travel. He was one of the founders of a local bluegrass club called Kansas Prairie Pickers Association.

His greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife; Mary McCrary, Tecumseh, KS. He is also survived by three children, Kelly (Kathy) McCrary, Springfield, MO; Gail (Dennis) Lyda, Overbrook, KS; Troy (Cindy) McCrary, Berryton, KS; nine grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.  

Other survivors include a sister, Lela McKee, Brownfield, TX; a brother, Charles (Lois) McCrary, Lebanon, TN; and a brother-in-law, Terry (Caecilia) Gropp, Scott City, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Galen's memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He lived a very full life, was dearly loved, and will be greatly missed. 

Honoring his request, cremation is planned. Visitation will be at 1:00 pm on Thursday, September 19th at Dove Southeast Chapel 2843 SE Minnesota Ave, Topeka, KS 66605   A Celebration of Life to follow beginning at 2:00 pm. Private inurnment will take place on a later date at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Berryton, KS.

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In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Kansas Prairie Pickers in care of Donna White, 5901 Longleaf Circle, Lawrence, Kansas 66049 to be utilized for music scholarships for aspiring musicians. 

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