10/12/2026
At Sunday's Musicians Appreciation Day at The Barn, Jenny Frey accepted a recognition award on behalf of her husband, Gary, a drummer who passed away in 2024.
Gary Frey was a gifted musician, outstanding educator, and, above all, a genuinely good man who made a lasting impact on the Zanesville community.
For decades, Gary played drums with numerous bands and musicians throughout the area, becoming a familiar and dependable presence in the local music scene. His willingness to share his talent led to a running joke that any new band in Zanesville was automatically assigned Gary as its drummer until it found someone else. He also generously donated his time and musical talents to community causes and benefits, including the Andy Jam at The Barn and other local fundraisers.
Gary’s contributions extended far beyond music. As a science teacher at Zanesville High School and Zanesville Community High School for more than 40 years, he influenced countless students. Former students describe him as an inspiring teacher who helped shape their careers and their lives.
Those who knew Gary consistently describe him as kind, humble, generous, intelligent, dependable, and always willing to help. His neighbors remember him as the kind of person who never complained, even when the neighborhood kids created plenty of chaos. He was patient and welcoming, treated children with kindness, and would spend time building things with them. Those same children later became his students and continued to hold him in the highest regard.
Gary was also the neighbor who would lend a hand, fix what needed fixing, and quietly help anyone who needed it. His kindness wasn’t reserved for friends or acquaintances—it was simply who he was.
Gary impact on Zanesville lives on through the students he inspired, the musicians he supported, the children he encouraged, the causes he served, and the many people who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.
PHOTO: Jenny Frey (center) is presented an inscribed cymbal from past honorees Jim Watson (left) and Paul Quinn.
