Gary Paul Champagne
October 09, 1952 - February 19, 2026
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Obituary For Gary Paul Champagne
Gary Paul Champagne, 73, of Maxwell, Texas, passed away on Thursday February 19, 2026.
Gary lived life on his own terms—kind, loyal, and always ready to fire up the grill. A legendary BBQ pit master, he believed that the best way to bring people together was over good food, laughter, and stories ‘shared under the sun.
Gary never used the terms “Step daughter or step son”
Gary’s pride and joy were his daughters, Samantha Stevenson and Tabatha Palmese, whom he loved fiercely and supported every step of the way. He also leaves behind his son Darren Cooper, seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, his mother Elizabeth Champagne, his brother Tommy Champagne, his sister Lizabeth Johnson, numerous nieces and nephews as well as his best friends Roy Thomas and Ron Schulenburg, who were like brothers to him, and Ace Estrada, who was like a son to him. He was preceded in death by his father Gerald Champagne, his son Nathan Cooper, and his loving partner Elizabeth Cooper.
Gary’s warmth, humor, and unforgettable BBQ will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Whether it was a family meal, a joke at the table, or a quiet moment of support, he had a way of making everyone feel loved and at home.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be at a later date where stories, laughter, and memories will honor the man who gave so much to everyone around him.
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Tributes
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Jennifer Perkins sent Sweet Moments for Gary Paul Champagne - March 12, 2026
Sending love and prayers at this difficult time. RIP Gary. Love, Jenny Perkins
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Samantha Stevenson sent Ocean Devotion for Gary Paul Champagne - March 06, 2026
For you dad. I love you.
Condolences
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March 10, 2026
No matter what other people said or thought about Gary, he was a loving father, grandfather, son and friend. Don't judge people until you know them really good. Personally he was a honest and loyal friend to me and showed more respect for me than many other men have in my life. I will miss him greatly, pray for his daughters and Grandchildren who he loved with all his heart. He loved his mom very much. He was always talking about her. Rest in Peace my friend. You are missed. 💜✝️❤️
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March 07, 2026
I met Gary in elementary school and remained friends through high school. I appreciated his friendship and sense of humor. I'm so sorry to learn of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family during this difficult period. Eugene Rios
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March 05, 2026
I am so sad to hear about Gary's passing. Gary was a very special friend to me for over 50 years. He will always have a special place in my heart. ❤️ Rest in peace.
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March 01, 2026
This was very unexpected news! My heart goes out to all of Gary's family and friends. When he would call to shoot the breeze...he would always talk about his girls and grandkids...they were his pride and joy. He had great pride in being a BBQ pitmaster and would keep me updated on where the the next cookoff would be. He will be missed by so many. RIP Gary. ❤️
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February 28, 2026
I am in total shock! Gary was one of the nicest people I ever met. We shared a lot about family. One of my nephews grew up and cutting teeth on Gary's smoked chicken and bones. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. I send my most sincere condolences.
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February 26, 2026
I already miss Gary's daily devotions on Facebook. We all hurt for Gary's departure, but is the happier for it.
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February 25, 2026
My sincere Condolences to all of his family, Sam and Tabatha! I am thinking of you guys! Gary was an amazing person and will be missed!
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February 25, 2026
My sincere Condolences to all of his family, Sam and Tabatha! I am thinking of you guys! Gary was an amazing person and will be missed!
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February 25, 2026
My sincere Condolences to all of his family, Sam and Tabatha! I am thinking of you guys! Gary was an amazing person and will be missed!
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February 24, 2026
I will miss you Gary I will see you again in heaven. The lord needed another angle in heaven. When it our time we will go to heaven. I loved Gary so much. He would call me and tell me the weather , moon, happy to give me advice and knew more people than anyone.He loved me everyday he would send sweet and full of for me and me loved him🙏
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