Gary Victor Thurgood, age 68, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 23, 2026.
Gary was born on July 1, 1957, to Victor Heber Thurgood and Geraldine”Gerrie” Lunt Thurgood Snyder. He spent his childhood in Spanish Fork before moving to Orem at age 13 where he attended Orem High School.

After a distinguished career as a bus operator and trainer, he retired from Utah Transit Authority in 2019. He was well known and respected by coworkers and riders alike.

Many knew him affectionately as “Bus Driver Gary”, a reflection of the pride he took in his work and the friendships he made along the way.

To family and friends, he was also known as “Gadget Gary” because he always seemed to have the perfect gadget, tool, or solution for every situation.

He never missed an opportunity for a good joke or harmless prank, and his sense of
humor brought joy to those around him.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and adventures. He loved skiing, fishing, riding motorcycles, four-wheeling, camping, target shooting, and flying ultralight airplanes.

Gary enjoyed music, especially classic rock, and passed that love on to his children. The songs he shared became part of their lives, and each familiar tune now serves as a cherished reminder of the memories they made together.

Above all, Gary was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, and friend. He was known for his outgoing personality, generous heart, and ability to make friends wherever he went. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Gary is survived by his children, Jason (Gen), Nicole (J.T.) and Amie (Danny); seven grandchildren; his sisters, Kathy Gomez and Lorrie Gillies; three nephews; and two nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor Thurgood and Gerrie Snyder; his stepfather, Kent Snyder; and his granddaughter, Alyssa Hendricks.

A graveside service will be held on Gary’s birthday, Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Spanish Fork Cemetery, 420 South 400 East, Spanish Fork, Utah.

He will be remembered as a friend to all and as someone who could always be counted on to bring a smile, a laugh, and perhaps a gadget perfectly suited to the moment.