Gary Lee First, age 73, a lifelong resident of Zephyrhills, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 23, 2025, in Lutz, Florida.
Born November 27, 1951 in Bedford, Ohio, Gary was the beloved son of James First and Mary First. He graduated from Zephyrhills High School and went on to become the proud owner and operator of First Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, serving his community with dedication and skill for many years.
On November 10th, 1990, Gary married the love of his life, Tina Marie First, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zephyrhills. They shared many joyful years together before her passing on December 30th, 2019.
Gary was a man of many talents and interests. He had a deep love for music and enjoyed singing in the church choir. A passionate coin collector and natural tinkerer, he was always busy working on new projects or fixing something. His hands were never idle, and his heart was always full.
He is survived by his children: Chris First (Judy), Sarah Lesniewski (Abraham), and John First; and stepchildren: Valerie Fernandez (Sean) and Marky Beverlin (Laura). Gary was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Jacob Fernandez, Morgan Fernandez, Hannah Fernandez, Emma Fernandez, Lily Fernandez, Thomas Fernandez, Olivia Fernandez, Madison Fernandez, Liam First, Piper First, Brody First, and Eleanor Lesniewski. He is also survived by his brother, Greg First (Jenny).
Gary’s legacy of hard work, love of family, and service to others will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation time will take place on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Hodges Family Funeral Home in Zephyrhills, Florida. The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Zephyrhills, Florida. Burial will follow the service at Chapel Hill Gardens in Dade City, Florida.