Gary Do
Gary Do grew up in Texarkana, Arkansas, as the middle child with an older sister and a younger brother. Family has always been a big part of his life, and he cherished the fact that his cousins lived within walking distance. “We’d meet up almost daily to play outside, ride bikes, and just enjoy being kids. Hanging out with family was a huge part of my childhood,” Gary says.
Gary graduated from Arkansas High School in Texarkana, and he believes those early years helped shape his values, especially the importance of hard work, community, and staying grounded. “I’m incredibly grateful for the journey I’ve been on — from my roots in Texarkana to building a career, a family, and a life grounded in purpose. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that relationships-with family, with community, with faith—are what truly matter. I’m thankful for the people who’ve poured into me along the way, and I hope to do the same for others, especially the next generation.” Gary says.
Gary reflects upon his father’s desire to have the best for his family. “My father immigrated to the United States from Vietnam after the war, determined to build a better life despite the challenges. Even though he never had the opportunity to graduate from high school himself, he’s raised three college graduates — a true testament to his perseverance, work ethic, and the values he’s instilled in us. His journey has taught me that success isn’t defined by where you start, but by how hard you’re willing to work and the sacrifices you make for those you love. His example continues to shape how I approach life, family, and every opportunity I’m given,” he says.
After graduating from high school, Gary attended the University of Arkansas, where he would again meet the love of his life. “Skye Metcalf-Do and I met in high school band, but reconnected later in college. In the fall of 2005, I was starting my senior year at the University of Arkansas when I found out she was attending school there too. Wanting to reach out and offer any advice, I did what any determined (and slightly old-school) person would do—I looked her up in the campus phone book and called her landline. Yes, an actual landline phone and an actual paper phone book—ancient relics from before smartphones and social media! When I called, she didn’t believe it was me. In fact, she accused me of being a stalker and grilled me with several questions to prove my identity. Thankfully, I passed the quiz. Over the next week, we kept randomly running into each other on campus. One memorable moment was when someone accidentally bumped into me and knocked some things out of my hands. As I bent down to pick everything up, the person apologized—and it turned out to be Skye! I like to believe that wasn’t just a coincidence—God was making sure our paths crossed again,” Gary says. This month, the couple is celebrating fourteen years of marriage together!
The couple now has one son, Samuel, who is six years old, and they just welcomed their daughter, Sophie. “Samuel is full of energy and curiosity — he loves anything sports-related and spends as much time as he can playing outside. Watching him grow and discover the world in his own way has been a joy. We’re looking forward to seeing him become a big brother and watching our family grow in this new season,” Gary says.
Becoming a father for the first time was everything Gary expected and even better. He says, “People tell you how life-changing it is, but you don’t fully understand it until you experience it yourself. It’s truly the most rewarding job in the world. Watching my child grow, learn, and develop their personality has been an incredible blessing. Fatherhood has given me a deeper sense of purpose and perspective, motivating me daily to be my best version.”
Gary’s advice for young fathers includes, “Be present, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. Your time, attention, and love mean more than anything money can buy. Don’t wait for the ‘big moments’ to show up; the small, everyday interactions shape your child’s world. Also, give yourself grace. You won’t always get it right, but being consistent, intentional, and loving goes a long way. And finally, never underestimate the power of leading by example — your kids are always watching, and how you treat others, handle challenges, and show up for your family will become part of their foundation.”