Brothers Larry Gordy ’72 and Craig Gordy ’75 share a unique story that intertwines with the core values of Texas A&M University and a deep family legacy. Following in the footsteps of their late father, Earl Gordy ’50, the Gordy brothers aspired to be Aggies from an early age.
Larry, alongside his brother Craig, chose to honor their parents’ legacy by establishing the Betty J. and Earl R. Gordy ’50 Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Engineering. Earl graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in mechanical engineering after serving in the Philippines during World War II. Betty was a steadfast supporter who effortlessly embodied the Aggie core values. Together, they worked hard to provide for their family, whether in Aggieland or their southeast Texas home.
Larry’s journey began with a simple plan: attend Texas A&M and study engineering after high school. Being at the university strongly supported by his parents, Earl and Betty, it was easy for Larry to call Aggieland home.
From his first footsteps on campus, Larry immersed himself in the Corps of Cadets as a member of Company E-2, who proudly care for Reveille, the First Lady of Aggieland. Larry was deeply affected by his unique personal experiences and interactions with fellow Aggies, building friendships that have endured for over five decades.
Larry’s character was shaped also through his time as a cadet. He participated in Silver Taps, Muster, Bonfire, Midnight Yell Practice and many of the vast Corps of Cadet traditions, including morning formation.
My parents’ time at A&M positively influenced their lives. During their lifetimes, they exemplified the values of loyalty, sacrifice, service and a strong work ethic.
“Both my life and career were shaped by my time at Texas A&M,” said Larry. “The unique traditions had a lasting impact on my life.”
Larry remembers the weekends when his parents traveled to town for Aggie football games. Regardless of the game's outcome, his parents were great examples of the 12th man. They always came prepared with a cooler full of food, ensuring that he and his friends were not left hungry.
Earl and Betty embodied the core value of selfless service. Once, Larry and a group of cadets were headed to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for a football game when they made a pit stop at his home in Beaumont, Texas. Betty welcomed the rowdy group with a warm meal and open arms.
Larry graduated with a degree in industrial engineering and spent 40-plus years in manufacturing after serving in the United States Army.
Like Larry, Craig studied engineering and actively participated in the Corps of Cadets, winning Distinguished Military Student in 1975. Craig cherished his time in Aggieland, carrying on a legacy of Aggies within the Gordy family.
Craig graduated with a degree in industrial engineering and pursued a storied career as a licensed engineer, beginning with Marathon Oil where he participated in both domestic and foreign energy operations. Craig is currently retired after serving various roles within onshore and offshore engineering projects.
Now helping more than just those in their immediate family, Larry and Craig know that their parents would be honored to know their endowment will serve as a foundation for Aggie engineers, both academically and professionally.
“My parents’ time at A&M positively influenced their lives. During their lifetimes, they exemplified the values of loyalty, sacrifice, service and a strong work ethic,” said Larry. “These traits did not necessarily originate at Texas A&M, but they were definitively nurtured and reinforced during their time in College Station.”
This endowment was crafted to alleviate the financial burdens of engineers from Texas. It is a testament to the Gordy’s family commitment to ensuring Aggies can pursue their engineering aspirations.
“Attending college is a financial burden,” said Larry. “Burdens can distract a student from the primary goals of succeeding in the classroom and enjoying the Aggieland experience.”