Last Updated: 11 Jun, 2025 | Views: 766
Age: 85
Profession: Scientist
Other Profession(s): Meteorologist
Famous For: Pioneering work in weather technology and his extensive and award-winning coverage of severe weather events.
Higher Education: University of Oklahoma (B.S.)
About (Profile/Biography):
Gary England (1939-2025) was Oklahoma's most beloved meteorologist, born in Seiling and serving as KWTV's chief meteorologist for over four decades. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1965 with degrees in mathematics and meteorology, becoming an internationally recognized authority in severe weather forecasting. Gary revolutionized tornado tracking and appeared in the 1996 movie "Twister" as both consultant and cameo performer. His career earned him Emmy Awards, the Edward R. Murrow Award, and induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. England passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in meteorology.
Early Life & Background of Gary England
• Gary was born in a small yellow house just east of Seiling, Oklahoma, to parents Hazel and Lesley England on October 3, 1939.
• His passion for weather began in seventh grade when he first watched Oklahoma City TV weathercaster Carrie Volkman broadcast from the studio.
• He served three years in the U.S. Navy before pursuing his meteorological education at the University of Oklahoma campus.
Educational Journey of Gary England
• Gary graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree in both mathematics and meteorology.
• He developed his expertise in severe weather patterns during his university years, focusing particularly on tornado formation and tracking systems.
• His academic foundation prepared him to become one of the nation's first television meteorologists to use advanced Doppler radar technology effectively.
Television Career around Gary England
• Gary worked at KWTV for 41 years, becoming Oklahoma's most trusted voice during severe weather events and tornado outbreaks.
• He officially retired from daily forecasting on August 28, 2013, though his retirement had been anticipated since early that year.
• After retirement, he continued as Vice President of Corporate Relations and Weather Development at Griffin Communications LLC.
Hollywood Connection of Gary England
• Gary had a cameo appearance in the 1996 blockbuster movie "Twister" and served as one of three weather announcers featured.
• He also worked as a consultant for the film, helping ensure accurate portrayal of meteorological procedures and tornado behavior.
• The real-life Oklahoma weatherman featured at the beginning of Twister issuing tornado warnings was none other than Gary himself.
Major Weather Events Coverage by Gary England
• After the devastating May 3, 1999 tornado outbreak, Gary appeared in over fifty national and international weather specials.
• He pioneered the use of live Doppler radar coverage during severe weather, setting the standard for modern television meteorology practices.
• Gary's coverage of major Oklahoma tornadoes helped save countless lives through his accurate, timely warnings and clear communication style.
Awards & Recognition received by Gary England
• Gary received three Emmy Awards and the Silver Circle Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Heartland Division.
• He earned the prestigious National Edward R. Murrow Award for Best in the Nation in breaking news and weather coverage.
• Gary was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2013 and received numerous Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters awards.
Lesser-Known Facts about Gary England
• Gary's weather expertise extended beyond television; he frequently consulted for agricultural organizations about farming conditions and crop protection strategies.
• He was known for his distinctive on-air presence, often removing his suit jacket during severe weather coverage to appear more approachable.
• Gary maintained detailed personal weather records for decades, contributing valuable data to the National Weather Service for research purposes.
Legacy & Impact of Gary England
• Gary revolutionized meteorology while helping keep Oklahomans informed during weather events, winning countless awards throughout his distinguished career.
• His legacy includes multiple Emmy Awards and induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for his contributions to broadcast meteorology.
• Gary passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in weather forecasting.
