Gary Brownell

Gary Brownell was a problem-solver, a photographer, a kind and generous man who was looking forward to pursuing numerous building projects and to creating extraordinary photographic images. He had plans to travel, to volunteer, to explore. On February 17, Gary passed peacefully at his home in Punta Gorda, FL.

After earning a degree in biology-chemistry at the State University of New York at Cortland Gary married his high school sweetheart, Judi Broadwell, and soon found himself managing a fast-food restaurant.  Several years later, he left the food service industry and ventured into home building, first flipping houses and then starting his own company, Gary Brownell, Inc., in Binghamton, NY. He was known for his commitment to excellence, his dedication to his employees, his trustworthiness, and his extraordinary craftmanship.

Gary was also an environmentalist and naturalist.  He loved the outdoors, especially the Adirondacks where he and Judi spent many summers wilderness camping.  During their 53 years of marriage they also traveled extensively, taking their family across the county and instilling an appreciation of other people and places. From the Norwegian fjords to the streets of Paris, Gary’s photographic images were a legacy of beauty and creativity.

Gary is survived by his wife, Judi, and two married sons; Conor and Jocelyn (children Bruno and Lila) and Cody and Jamie(children Colin, Miles, and Riley). He adored his five grandchildren and was endlessly inspired by his sons and their families. He also has a sister, Kathlene Gross (G. David Gross, deceased), and a brother William (deceased).

Calling hours will be at Perkins Funeral Home in Dryden, NY, from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1.  A service will follow.  Family and friends are invited to the Dryden Presbyterian Church immediately following for light refreshments.

Gary felt a strong connection to the Finger Lakes Land Trust, whose mission is “To conserve forever the lands and waters of the Finger Lakes region, ensuring scenic vistas, local foods, clean water, and wild places for everyone.”  The Land Trust address is 202 East Court Street, Ithaca, NY, 14850, for those wishing to make a donation.  https://www.fllt.org