Gary Lee HNAGHAHNII Benally

Gary Benally, 67, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by family and friends at the family home in Lynnwood, Washington. He was born on May 4, 1958, in Tacoma, Washington, to Jerome Benally and Irene Petty Bailey.

Gary attended Mountlake Terrace High School, graduating in 1976. He later attended Lummi College, where he studied Aquaculture alongside his mother, Petty. In 1980, he began his work in the smokehouse under the guidance of Isadore Tom Sr. on Scott Road in Lummi, WA. Gary was deeply devoted to the smokehouse and the traditions it upheld. He had several Sewoyn sons and daughters, and whenever he was called upon to attend ceremonies, he responded without hesitation he was always there.

Gary had a passion for traveling and competing in stick game tournaments, winning several alongside his family. He cherished attending summer powwows, where he sold his handcrafted beadwork, drums, and stick game sets. Each year, the family made a meaningful journey to New Mexico to honor their Navajo traditions and also traveled annually to Tillicum Village.

He was the best uncle anyone could ask for always present at his nieces' and nephews' sporting events, award ceremonies, graduations, and birthdays. Family meant everything to Gary, and he made it a priority in every aspect of his life. He would go beyond the moon and stars for his loved ones.

Gary and Joe Joe especially enjoyed fishing together on the Skagit River. He was also known for his dedication to his work. His first job was as an auditor for a local business, a role that took him as far as Alaska. In 1992, he began working at the Tulalip Casino, where he remained for over 30 years until his retirement in June 2024. In recognition of his outstanding dedication, he was honored with a Pendleton blanket for not calling in sick for 25 years. His work ethic and presence will be remembered by many.

Gary is survived by his sister, Nancy (Benny) Whitson; his brother Mark (Cassandra) Benally; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and Sewoyn children.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerome Benally and Irene Petty Bailey; his grandparents, William Bailey and Myrtle Dan, Wallace Benally and Mable Henry, Carl Curtis and Franny Begay; his brothers, Jerry and Jeffery Benally; his niece, Christy Clark;  many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Funeral Service for Gary will be held at 10:00,  on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Social Services Building at Swinomish. Share your memories of Gary  and sign the online guest register.