Gary E. Stevenson was born on August 6, 1955, to Evan N. and Vera Jean Hall Stevenson and was raised in Cache Valley, Utah.
In April 1979, Gary E. Stevenson married Lesa J. Higley. They are the parents of four sons.
He received a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Utah State University.
His previous Church service includes full-time missionary in the Japan Fukuoka Mission, ward Sunday School teacher, high councilor, bishop, stake presidency counselor, and president of the Japan Nagoya Mission (2004-2007).
In April 2008, he was called to the First Quorum of the Seventy and served as a counselor and later as president in the Asia North Area Presidency.
Gary E. Stevenson cofounded an exercise equipment manufacturing company, ICON Health & Fitness, Inc., where he served as president and chief operating officer until 2008. He was also involved in numerous civic activities and has served on various boards and advisory councils.