Gary Ray Lynn

Gary Ray Lynn, age 74, of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of family.

Born on December 12, 1951, in Sparta, Tennessee, Gary was the beloved child of the late Dohmer and Alla Mae Lynn. Throughout life, he was known for his love for the Lord and the compassion and care extended to others.

Gary was a graduate of Lee College and later the University of Tennessee with his master’s in education administration. He devoted his life to the Lord caring for others. His early years he poured into the hearts of young adults as an educator and coach. After several years he stepped into the business world where he thrived in management as he continued to care for customers with graciousness. In the later part of his life, he developed a heart for caring more intentionally for hurting people. He attended Houston Graduate School of Theology and completed the criteria for licensure as a professional counselor. In the early 90's he began a career in counseling and later founded Family Christian Counseling Center (FCCC) in Houston, TX. In 2010 the center expanded to Cleveland, TN. He was a true student of the Word of God, and he loved sharing the hope and redemptive power of Jesus Christ.

Beyond his career he loved being active. He was competitive by nature and enjoyed playing basketball and tennis. He was a gifted artist who has painted scenic pictures of God's creation. At home he was often found working and maintaining a beautiful, landscaped yard. He was a musician at heart teaching himself how to play the guitar, piano and organ at a young age. Listening to Christian music and watching sports were the two things that allowed him some restful reprieve. He closely followed the White County Warriors, his high school alma mater, and always joked his blood ran orange for his love of the Tennessee Volunteers. Above all else he loved serving his Savior. He was a faithful member of Westmore Church of God.

Gary dearly cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Karen Higgenbottom Lynn; his precious daughters, (as he often stated) Dr. Jennifer Walker and Tera Joseph; and his son-in-law, Dr. Daniel Walker who continues his legacy as a counselor at FCCC. He adored his grandchildren, Daniel "Danny" Walker and his wife Kaeli, Sydney Walker and Mathew Joseph. He also cared deeply for his siblings, Tom Lynn (Nancy), James Lynn, Willa Smith (Bedford), and Brenda Roberts (Clarence); as well as brothers in law, Rev. James Randall Higgenbottom (Patty), Michael Higgenbottom (Linda) and Randall Lawry (Susan); and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as friends that became like family. He was preceded in death by his parents Dohmer and Alla Mae Lynn; his beloved in-laws, JD and Fay Higgenbottom; his nephew, Nathan Smith; and his sister-in-law, Cheryl Lawry.

A celebration of Gary's life will be held on July 14th at Westmore Church of God, Cleveland, TN. Visitation will be held 10:00-11:30am (EST) with the service following at 11:30am (EST). The burial will take place in Sparta, Tennessee at Old Union Cemetery at 3:30pm (CST). with Danny Walker, Mathew Joseph, Ronnie Roberts, Jamie Higgenbottom, Steve Rogers, Trey Bolt and Zion McClanahan serving as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Smoky Mountain Children’s Home in Sevierville, TN.

Though deeply missed, Gary's legacy of love, faith, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services North Ocoee Street Chapel has charge of the arrangements. You may share your memories and condolences with the Lynn family at www.jimrushfuneralhomes.com.