Gary Hansel Luther, 71, of Canyon, TX, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. His passing was unexpected, following an in-home fall, and has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew him.

Born on March 7, 1953, in Farmington, NM, Gary Hansel grew up in Bloomfield and was a man who formed lifelong friendships. A passionate and curious learner, he graduated from New Mexico State University in 1975 with a degree in Government and Philosophy, with a minor in History—a testament to his love for knowledge and the world around him.

After earning his teaching certificate, Gary Hansel embarked on a meaningful career in education, teaching history, social studies, geography, and government on the First Nations Navajo Reservation in the northwest corner of New Mexico. He was not only a beloved educator but also a trusted source of wisdom. If you ever needed a historical fact or insight into the world, Gary Hansel was always the one to call—a true “phone-a-friend.”

Later, Gary Hansel transitioned into the oil and gas industry, where he built a distinguished career with companies such as Diamond Shamrock, Maxus, BP, and Eagle Rock. His work ethic, integrity, and dedication were hallmarks of his professional life until his retirement in June 2014.

In retirement, Gary Hansel found new purpose and joy in volunteering at Arts in the Sunset, a community art center in Amarillo, TX where he and his wife became integral members of the Amarillo art scene. There, he shared his passion for the arts, helping to foster creativity and enrich the community. His contributions left an enduring legacy, and his presence was a source of inspiration and warmth to all who crossed his path.

Gary Hansel is survived by his loving wife, Johnna Kay Bell Luther; his children, Brice Carpenter of Denver, CO, Jacob Ross Lucero and his wife Amanda of Las Cruces, NM, and Jessie Petit and her husband Levi of Fritch, TX; and his cherished grandchildren, Emilio and Hugo Lucero, and Sasha and Hatchit Petit, who were the light of his life. He also leaves behind his brothers, Mark Luther and Gudjon Agust Luther, his sister-in-law, Ragnheidur Stefansdottir, and four beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Helen Luther, with whom he is now reunited, dancing and celebrating together in heaven.

Gary Hansel will be remembered as a kind, compassionate, and genuine soul who had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued and cared for. A “friend’s friend” in every sense, his legacy of kindness, wisdom, and service will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Gary Hansel’s extraordinary life will be held at 10 am on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in the Vermillion Gallery at the Arts in the Sunset community art center, located at 3701 Plains Boulevard, Amarillo, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Gary Hansel Luther Memorial Fund at the Arts in the Sunset (https://www.artsinthesunset.org/donate), honoring Gary Hansel’s love for the arts.

Gary Hansel Luther’s light will forever be present in the hearts of those he touched, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and service that will never be forgotten.