Gary Ray Bost

Gary Ray Bost of Bastrop, TX, passed away on December 14, 2023, in the presence of family after a brief illness. Gary was born to Aaron and Opal Bost on September 7, 1944, in Longview, Texas. After graduating from East Texas State University, he taught high school chemistry until 1968 when he entered the United States Air Force. During his 20 years in the military, he served as an F4 pilot, Flight Commander, and Instructor Pilot stationed at various posts domestically and internationally. Upon his retirement, at the rank of Major, in 1988, Gary joined Piedmont Airlines and continued his aviation career. In 1989 Piedmont merged with USAir, where Gary flew multiple commercial aircraft until 1999 when his flying career was brought to an end by a medical condition. Gary did not allow his medical condition to detract from his love of life, aviation, and sports. In his retirement Gary continued to fly privately, play chess, racquetball, and his true passion: Golf. Gary learned to make his own golf clubs and lived a short distance from his favorite course, which he drove to often in his golf cart. Gary was preceded in death by his wife of 26 years Patricia Bost, son through marriage Kevin Smith, and parents Aaron and Opal Bost. Gary is survived by his children Eric (Victoria) Bost, Leah (Robert) Ferrell, children through marriage Chris Smith, Brian Smith, and Tricia (Eric) Poncho, siblings Ronald Bost, Karla (David) Dyer, 22 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Gary’s broad smile, quick wit, and unique sense of humor will be missed by those who knew him. Memorial services are scheduled for Thursday, December 28, 2023, at 2pm at Bastrop Providence Funeral Home, with viewing starting at 1pm. Internment at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery is TBD pending Cremation per Gary’s final wishes. In place of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice, or play a round of golf, in Gary’s name.