Gary Donovan Saxton Sr.

Gary Donovan Saxton, Sr. was born on January 12, 1961, in Mayfield, Kentucky, to Marjorie Saxton Payne and Charles Kirby. On September 9, 2026, Gary transitioned from this life, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

Gary was a member of Silver Spring Baptist Church. He was a proud graduate of Mayfield High School and continued his education at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky.

Gary was a man with a great personality who had a way of making those around him feel welcome. He was known for his enthusiasm, his sense of humor, and his genuine enjoyment of life. Whether sharing a conversation, enjoying time with family and friends, or simply being himself, Gary brought a presence that was uniquely his own.

A true sports enthusiast, Gary loved football, golf, and sports of all kinds. His passion was especially evident when it came to his beloved Dallas Cowboys. He was a proud and dedicated Cowboys fan who could always be counted on to follow the team and cheer them on. His love for sports extended close to home as well, as he was a devoted Mayfield Cardinals fan and took pride in supporting his hometown team. Gary also had a genuine love for cooking. He enjoyed preparing good food and sharing it with others.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie Saxton Payne and Charles Kirby; stepfather, Howard Payne; sisters, Sandra Saxton and Rita Saxton; brothers, Howard Keith Payne and Julius A. Payne; and a host of aunts and uncles.

Gary leaves to cherish his memory, his sons, Justin Saxton [Winchester, KY] and Gary Saxton, Jr. [Ogden, Utah]; daughter, Tameka Kirby [Pikesville, KY]; sisters, Mary (Larry) Stubblefield [Almo, KY], Earline Saxton [Mayfield, KY], and Karen Saxton [Bardwell, KY]; brothers, Charles (Barbara) Saxton [Tupelo, MS] and John (Deidtre) Saxton [Paducah, KY]; uncle, Ben Saxton [Mayfield, KY]; aunts, Josephine Galbreath [Nashville, TN] and Johnnie Saxton [Mayfield, KY]; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family and friends.

He also leaves behind his special godmother, Louise Mims, whose love and presence held a special place in his life.

Gary Donovan Saxton, Sr. will be remembered for his great personality, his love of family and friends, his passion for sports, his unwavering loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys and Mayfield Cardinals, and the joy he found in cooking and bringing people together. His life touched many, and his memory will continue to live on through the people who knew and loved him.