Gary D. Elkins
Gary David Elkins, age 77, of Santa Barbara, passed away on January 28, 2026, at Cottage Hospital following a debilitating stroke.
Born on July 8, 1948, in Vallejo, California, Gary was the son of George and Lorraine Elkins. Throughout his childhood, he lived in various parts of the United States due to his father’s career in the Aerospace Industry during the surge in space science in the 1950s and 60s. Gary graduated from Huntington Beach High School in “Surf City USA.” It was in Huntington Beach where he married Linda Mary Martin, and together they welcomed their son, David Cary Elkins. Gary supported his young family by working in the Aerospace Industry and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Long Beach State University.
In 1973, Gary began his teaching career at Carpinteria High School, where he fused his passion for art and surfing with a fulfilling career as an educator. The move allowed him to establish a life near the ocean, which he cherished. For 32 years, he taught Art at Carpinteria High School, during which time he earned an Administrative Credential and a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Azusa Pacific University. These qualifications were instrumental in bringing multimedia learning and “the MAC lab” to the school.
Gary’s dedication inspired both students and colleagues, fostering an appreciation for art and supporting the personal growth of many young people. He frequently collaborated with former students on projects and taught multiple generations of local families. Gary later continued to serve the Carpinteria school community as Assistant Principal.
In 1985, Gary found love again, marrying Jayne Brechwald in a joyful hot air balloon wedding celebration. Their partnership was rooted in friendship, community, travel, art, family, and shared professional experiences. Having settled in Santa Barbara in the early 1970s, Gary expanded and remodeled several homes, ultimately building a dream home to share with Jayne.
After retiring from the Carpinteria Unified School District in 2010, Gary remained active in his passion for art and teaching. He enjoyed teaching jewelry-making through the Santa Barbara City College Adult Education Program. Alongside Jayne, Gary embarked on the adventure of visiting places listed in the anthology, “1000 Places to See Before You Die,” managing to check off nearly 1000 destinations together. Their travels were among Gary’s greatest accomplishments, reflecting his zest for discovery and learning.
Gary was truly a renaissance man, with artistic talents spanning painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, ceramics, computer graphic design, jewelry making, and more. He was an artist who found beauty everywhere, a surfer who felt most alive in the ocean, and a teacher who shared his enthusiasm for life and art through a calm, loving, and patient teaching style.
Above all, Gary’s greatest joy was his beloved “Jaynie B.” and the families they cherished together. He was a proud father, devoted grandfather, and a cherished friend to many. His curiosity, creativity, and kindness touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of wisdom and quiet strength.
Gary is survived by his wife, Jayne Brechwald; his son, David Cary Elkins; his daughter-in-law, Leigh (Balsamo) Elkins; his granddaughters, Sheridan Ashley Elkins, Aislyne Elise Elkins, and Amanda Bryce Elkins; and David’s mother, Linda Elkins. He will also be missed by his grand-dog, Walker.
Gary will be deeply missed and forever loved. His admirers, friends, students, and family are broken hearted by his passing, but will cherish the memories of a life well lived. The family extends their gratitude for the support and thoughts offered during this difficult time of grief and loss. A Celebration of Life in Gary’s honor is being planned.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Arts Fund of Santa Barbara, the Carpinteria Arts Center, or the Carpinteria Education Foundation.
