Oklahoma has lost one of its most iconic voices. Gary England, the legendary meteorologist who spent decades keeping Oklahomans safe during severe weather, has passed away at the age of 85. The news was shared by his family on June 10, 2025. While the cause of death hasn't been revealed, it's clear that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his dedication, knowledge, and warmth.
A Life Devoted to Weather and Safety
Gary England wasn’t just a meteorologist — he was a comforting and trusted presence in many Oklahoma homes. Born on October 3, 1939, in Seiling, Oklahoma, Gary was a true son of the state. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he pursued his passion for weather, earning a degree in mathematics and meteorology from the University of Oklahoma in 1965.
In 1972, he joined KWTV, the CBS affiliate in Oklahoma City, and the rest is history. For more than 40 years, Gary was the face of severe weather coverage in the state, guiding viewers through tornadoes, hailstorms, and life-threatening weather events with calm authority.
He once admitted in an interview:
"I liked storms. They scared the heck out of me, but I loved them. I always was just that way."
That fascination drove him to become a pioneer in meteorology — not just warning people about danger, but also educating them about it.
A Family Man and Community Hero
Gary England was more than his job. He was a husband, father, and grandfather. He spent 63 years with his wife Mary, whom he met during his time at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. They shared a beautiful life together, raising their daughter Molly and watching their grandchildren, Chloe and Cassidy, grow.
His family’s statement summed up the emotion of the moment:
“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Gary England passed this evening. Gary passed peacefully on the evening of June 10th surrounded by his loved ones… He will be deeply and forever missed.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Gary retired in 2013 as KWTV’s chief meteorologist, but his influence didn’t stop there. He inspired a generation of meteorologists, many of whom looked up to him not just for his skill, but for his passion and humanity.
Here are just a few of the heartfelt tributes pouring in:
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Michael Armstrong, KOCO 5 Field Meteorologist, wrote:
“You knew him as an Oklahoma legend, a Hall of Famer. I knew him as friend… ‘Simply the Best.’” -
Sherry Marshall, CEO of Science Museum Oklahoma, said:
“Gary England was a weather coverage pioneer… He 'raised' an entire generation of future meteorologists who now carry on his legacy.”
She also highlighted what many Oklahomans felt:
“Countless lives were saved through his commitment… Gary England simply shaped the way Oklahomans understand weather.”
Final Thoughts
Gary England wasn’t just a familiar face on TV. He was a symbol of safety, trust, and resilience — especially during Oklahoma’s most dangerous weather moments. His work undoubtedly saved lives, and his warm presence gave comfort to countless viewers.
Even though he’s no longer with us, Gary’s impact will continue through the people he trained, the families he protected, and the legacy of excellence he left behind. He was, truly, "simply the best."