Pete Junior Zachary, age 93 of Rowlett, Texas, was born to Peter Jones Zachary and Elsie Mae Rhodes on December 14, 1930, in Hunt County, Texas, and passed away on November 22, 2024. He married his beautiful bride, Thelma Faye Bayless, on October 27, 1951, recently celebrating 73 years together.

Pete grew up in Blackland, Texas, and was working at the Blackland Cotton Gin when they got married. He next worked on roads and bridges for Ford Construction Company and then was employed as a mechanic for Browning-Ferris Machinery. In the mid-70's he went into business for himself doing excavation work. He graded lots for houses and businesses all over Rowlett, Garland, and surrounding areas. In retirement he stayed active, mowing lots, fixing lawn mowers, and shelling and selling pecans.

Pete loved hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, and fixing things. He had a green thumb when it came to plants and growing things. If something was broke, he could fix it, many times making his own parts. His motto was "Can't can't do nothing."

Pete and his son Larry enjoyed refurbishing antique tractors and engines. They, along with two of Pete's brothers, were active members of the North Texas Antique Tractor and Engine Club for several years.

People were important to Pete. He was devoted to his wife, was close with his siblings and their families, enjoyed spending time with his kids, and adored his grandkids. He especially loved playing with the little ones and as they got older he shared with them the things he loved. Pete was a talker, boy could he tell some stories. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help someone. Many people loved him and called him friend.

Pete is survived by his wife Thelma Zachary, daughter Sharon Jones and husband Jerry, son Larry Zachary and wife Teresa, his four grandchildren, Jason Vickers and wife Shelly, Justin Vickers and wife Holly, Ashley Zachary, Tyler Zachary, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is survived by three siblings, Mary Smith, Billy Zachary and wife Kay, and Johnny Zachary. He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings including Jim Zachary, Frank Zachary, Margie Welk and Betty Robinson.