February 6, 1942 - May 13, 2025
Marengo, Ohio | Age 83
CSM(R) Gary Victor Wiley, 83, of Marengo, Ohio, passed away suddenly on May 13, 2025. He was surrounded by the loving presence of his daughter, Janine.
Born in Charleston, West Virginia, on February 6, 1942, Gary lived in several places throughout his early life, but Marengo, Ohio, was where he ultimately called home. There, he built a life with his wife of nearly 53 years, Grace Barnes Wiley. Together, they raised two children, Victor and Janine. Though Grace now lives with Alzheimer’s, Gary remained a loving, loyal, and dedicated partner until the very end.
Gary enlisted at a young age and began a nearly 40-year career with the United States Army, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army Special Forces. He also served in a civilian role with the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Group. His service to his country was one of his proudest achievements.
Determined to make the most of every opportunity, Gary pursued higher education later in life, earning two bachelor’s degrees thanks to the Army—and to Grace’s encouragement and patience. Knowledge was important to him, and he pursued it with the same determination he brought to everything he did.
He knew a little about everything and was always ready for a conversation, no matter the topic. A lifelong reader, he was known to finish at least two mystery, historical fiction, or sci-fi novels a week—even in his final days.
Gary was stubborn, curious, and endlessly resourceful—a true problem-solver who could fix anything, often with nothing more than duct tape and confidence. His dry, sometimes groan-worthy humor was a constant presence; his jokes might not always have been funny, but his ornery smile, because he thought he was funny, often made you laugh anyway.
He loved food, especially a buffet, as long as salt, pepper, hot sauce, and Diet Coke were included. His gifts were legendary for their unpredictability: funny, strange, oddly specific, and always memorable. For those he cared for, he always had random gifts on hand, often for no occasion at all, and while you never knew what it would be, you could be sure it was picked with you (and a smirk) in mind.
Gary wasn’t always easy, but he was steadfast. He showed love through actions, not words—through hard work, loyalty, and showing up when it counted.
He was a longtime member of the Marengo United Methodist Church, where he spent countless hours volunteering for fundraisers such as the church's sweet corn project and garage sale. He was also proud to be a Special Forces Association, Ohio Chapter 45 member.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Grace; his son, Victor Wiley (Erica Warnock); his daughter, Janine Wiley Robinson (Scot); and his beloved grandchildren: Samuel (Olivia Racette), Elizabeth, Claire, Vincent, Joy, and Grace. He is also survived by his sister, brother, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many cherished friends. Gary will be missed by all whose lives were touched by his service, dependability, and heart.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Gary V. Wiley to the Ohio Green Beret Support Group Scholarship Fund. A link to the donation page can be found here.
A memorial service with military honors and flag presentation will be held for friends and family at Snyder Funeral Home, DeVore Chapel, 637 OH-61, Sunbury, Ohio, 43074 on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. with a gathering prior from 1:00-2:00 P.M. Pastor Amy Barr officiating.
