Gary England, the longtime chief meteorologist for KWTV-DT, passed away on Tuesday, June 10.
No cause of death has been made public.
Born in Seiling, Oklahoma, Gary’s connection with weather started early. At just 17, the broadcaster joined the U.S. Navy and began studying meteorology. He later went on to earn his degree in mathematics and meteorology from the University of Oklahoma.
His career in broadcasting kicked off at KTOK, where England also met his future wife, Mary, who was working at the same station at the time.
In October 1972, he joined KWTV, where he would spend decades keeping Oklahomans updated on severe weather, often becoming a reassuring voice during dangerous storms. Over the years, he became one of the most trusted names in meteorology, helping shape how weather was covered on TV.
After news of his passing broke, tributes poured in from colleagues, fans, and friends who had followed his work for years.
KOCO 5 Field Meteorologist Michael Armstrong shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, writing,
“You knew him as an Oklahoma legend, a Hall of Famer. I knew him as a friend. Gary — I love you and will forever miss you, but I’m so thankful to have been able to work so closely with you doing what we both shared such a passion for. ‘Simply the Best.'”
Gary made his final media appearance in 2021 with a small cameo as a weatherman in the fantasy movie Iké Boys.
His Family Is Devastated
Gary’s passing has left his entire family heartbroken. His long-time spouse, daughter, and grandchildren shared a statement saying:
“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, including his wife of 63 years, Mary, and his loving daughter, Molly. Gary was proud to have protected Oklahoma from its deadliest storms. He will be deeply and forever missed.”
Gary had been married to Mary (née Smith) England for 63 years. Originally from Hobart, Oklahoma, Mary was once a media personality herself, working at KTOK.
The couple has a daughter, Molly England Lutosky. Like her father, Molly also attended the University of Oklahoma. She now lives in San Diego, California, with her husband and their two daughters, Chloe and Cassidy.