The son of industry veteran, Dawnery Vargo, COO of VM Products, passed away unexpectedly during a track meet on April 24
Graycen Scott Vargo left this earth on April 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy and impact on others defined by strength, authenticity, and a quiet kindness that spoke louder than words.
Born on March 1, 2005, Graycen brought momentum into life from the very beginning. He carried that energy into everything he did, especially athletics, where his presence was always felt. He was fiercely competitive and deeply driven, the kind of teammate who made those around him better simply by refusing to back down when challenges arose.
Graycen’s strength was not limited to the physical. It showed in his consistency, his loyalty, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. He earned respect not through attention or recognition, but through effort, reliability, and character.
He had a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor that could light up even the hardest moments. Whether he was on late-night runs, playing video games, watching anime, or competing on the basketball court, Graycen brought intensity and heart into everything he did. When he committed, he was all in.
But what defined Graycen most could not always be seen on the surface. It was the way he quietly chose what was right when no one was watching. The way he cared for others not in grand gestures, but in small, steady ways that carried real weight. He was unapologetically himself, grounded in a perspective that saw deeper than most, understanding people and situations with a quiet wisdom beyond his years.
Those who knew him best understood that his greatest impact often came in passing moments. He noticed what others missed. He spoke truth when it was needed. He challenged people to be better, but never without also helping them get there.
Graycen valued learning and never stepped away from a challenge. He could be teasing when someone did not know something, but he was just as quick to sit beside them and make sure they understood. That balance—pushing others while lifting them—was a part of who he was.
During his time at Texas A&M–Texarkana, Graycen was recognized with the Texas A&M Texarkana Eagle Excellence Award for the positive impact he had on his campus, his team, and his community. He was a valued member of the student body and a beloved presence on the Cross Country and Track and Field teams, and his absence will be deeply felt across the university community.
Graycen also held a deep love for animals, described by his mother as “more than most people.”
He is remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was: steady, competitive, kind, and real. He lived fully, cared deeply, and made those around him better simply by being himself. His legacy will continue in the lives he touched and the example he left behind.
In lieu of flowers, a foundation or legacy initiative will be established in his name to carry forward his momentum and impact.
He is survived by his parents, Dawnery and Michael Vargo; his sisters, Alyssa Vargo and Karlee Steele; his brother, Nolan Dombrowski; his grandparents, Constance Vargo and John and Cynthia Ferguson; and numerous family, friends, and teammates.
He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Dr. Thomas A. Vargo.
