Gary England parents: Meet Hazel England and Lesley England

Gary England, a household name in Oklahoma meteorology, was born and bred in Seiling, Oklahoma, to Hazel Wanda Stong and Leslie Elwood England.

Growing up amidst the tumultuous weather of Seiling, including the impactful 1947 tornadoes, ignited his enduring passion for meteorology.

After high school, England enlisted in the Navy, where he delved into meteorology studies. Furthering his education, he earned a B.S. in mathematics and meteorology from the University of Oklahoma.

His professional journey kicked off with consultancy roles and a brief stint at KTOK radio before finding his niche at KWTV in 1972.

England’s contributions to weather forecasting and public safety are profound. Pioneering the use of Doppler radar for tornado warnings, he transformed severe weather communication.

Additionally, his development of the First Warning map provided a crucial visual aid for conveying ongoing alerts.

Over his tenure at KWTV, England won hearts with his clear explanations, down-to-earth humor, and unwavering commitment to Oklahomans’ safety.

Though he retired as chief meteorologist in 2013, his involvement with KWTV’s parent company endures.

England’s accolades speak volumes, including three Emmy Awards, an Edward R. Murrow Award, and prestigious inductions into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.