DePresto Gary

Gary “Presto” DePresto, age 79, of Caneyville, Kentucky, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born on January 12, 1947, in Welchs Creek, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Amos and Margaret Embry Gary.

A longtime resident of Caneyville, Presto cared deeply for his community. He served 16 years as the 2nd district magistrate on the Grayson County Fiscal Court and worked as a deputy jailer at the Grayson County Detention Center from 1993 to 1997. He owned and operated Presto Construction and managed cattle on the family farm. He was a hardworking man who earned everything he had through dedication and integrity.

Outside of work, Presto found joy in music. He founded KY Sound Old Time Gospel, a bluegrass and gospel band that toured Kentucky and neighboring states. He loved playing guitar and mandolin, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also opened and operated Gary Pay Lake, creating a special place for his children and grandchildren to gather and remember him and his wife, Jo Ann. A devoted supporter of the Grayson County Cougars, he spent many years cheering for his kids and grandkids, especially cherishing the 2025-2026 Cougar Basketball team.

Presto was a member of the Chapel Union Baptist Church. He is survived by his children, Deanna Gary of Leitchfield, Donita Ashley (Tootie) of Anneta, Daniel Gary, Denisa Geary, and David Gary (Brittany), all of Caneyville; twelve grandchildren, Kelli (Aaron), Brena (Logan), Tyler (Kursten), Erin, Shelby, Preston, Izzy, Abby, Bentley, McKinley, Halley Jo, and Lilley; four great-grandchildren, Stella Jo, Emma, Langston, and Colby; one sister, Marylane Fishburn; two brothers-in-law, Richard Brooks (Karen) and Vivin Brooks; one step-sister-in-law, Florence Gary; and a very special caretaker, Brenda Williams. Several nieces and nephews also survive him. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, JoAnn Brooks Gary, in addition to his parents, stepmother Eulma Gary, and stepbrother James Gary.