Story Highlights
- Willie E. Gary, born into poverty, overcame adversity to become one of the wealthiest and most influential attorneys in the United States.
- Gary’s legal prowess earned him the nickname “The Giant Killer” for his ability to secure multi-million dollar settlements against major corporations.
- Beyond his legal achievements, Gary is known for his philanthropic efforts, establishing The Gary Foundation and donating millions to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
From Humble Beginnings to Legal Powerhouse
Born on July 12, 1947, in Eastman, Georgia, Willie E. Gary’s early life was far from glamorous. His parents, Turner and Mary, were sharecroppers who later became migrant farmers, often struggling to provide a stable home for their family. Despite the hardships, Gary’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through at a young age when he started a lawn service to help support his family.
Gary’s life took a significant turn when he earned a scholarship to attend Shaw University in North Carolina. After graduating, he pursued a law degree at the North Carolina Central University School of Law. Faced with discrimination from established law firms, Gary took matters into his own hands and founded his practice in Martin County, Florida, becoming the first Black attorney in the area.
Landmark Cases and the Rise of “The Giant Killer”
Success quickly followed Gary’s bold move, with a $250,000 settlement in his first case and an undefeated record for seven years. His legal prowess earned him the nickname “The Giant Killer” for his ability to take on and defeat major corporations on behalf of his clients. Gary’s law firm, now known as The Law Firm of Gary, Williams, Parenti, Watson, Gary & Gillespie, P.L.L.C., has grown to include over 30 attorneys and three offices in Florida.
One of Gary’s most notable victories came in 1995 when he represented Jeremiah Joseph O’Keefe, a World War II veteran and funeral home operator, in a lawsuit against businessman Raymond Loewen. Gary secured a staggering $500 million settlement for his client, solidifying his reputation as a formidable legal force. The case has since been adapted into a film titled “The Burial,” starring Jamie Foxx as Willie E. Gary.
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Beyond his legal achievements, Gary is known for his philanthropic endeavors. Together with his wife, Gloria, he established The Gary Foundation in 1994, which provides scholarships and resources to help young people achieve their educational dreams. The couple has also donated millions to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, with Gary making a $10 million contribution to his alma mater, Shaw University, in 1991.
Gary’s success has afforded him a luxurious lifestyle, including a custom-designed Boeing 737 named “Wings of Justice II.” However, his journey has not been without challenges. In recent years, Gary and his law firm have faced financial issues and lawsuits related to loans and properties. Despite these setbacks, Gary remains committed to his legal practice and philanthropic efforts.
Willie E. Gary’s extraordinary rise from poverty to prominence, with a net worth of $50 million, serves as an inspiration to aspiring attorneys and entrepreneurs alike. His unwavering dedication to justice, combined with his business acumen, has made him an unstoppable force in the legal world. As he continues to take on high-profile cases and give back to his community, Gary’s legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for the underdog is firmly established.
FAQs Willie Gary Net Worth
What is Willie Gary net worth?
Willie Gary net worth is estimated to be $50 million.
What is Willie E. Gary most famous for?
Willie E. Gary is most famous for his legal victories against major corporations, earning him the nickname “The Giant Killer.”
What is the name of Willie E. Gary’s law firm?
Willie E. Gary’s law firm is called The Law Firm of Gary, Williams, Parenti, Watson, Gary & Gillespie, P.L.L.C.
What philanthropic efforts is Willie E. Gary involved in?
Willie E. Gary and his wife, Gloria, established The Gary Foundation in 1994, which provides scholarships and resources to help young people achieve their educational dreams.
Is there a movie based on one of Willie E. Gary’s cases?
Yes, the movie “The Burial,” starring Jamie Foxx as Willie E. Gary, is based on his 1995 case representing Jeremiah Joseph O’Keefe against businessman Raymond Loewen.
