SUFFOLK—Gary Patrick Wiley, 75, passed away February 23, 2024 at his home in Suffolk, Virginia, surrounded by his loved ones. A Vietnam veteran, pilot, sailor, mentor, and devoted family man, he lived a rich and full life, contributing greatly to his country and community.

Born in Denver, Colorado to the late Eugene M. Wiley and Virginia Blair Wiley, Gary grew up hearing stories from his father, a pilot and prisoner of war during World War II, and later would become a pilot himself for the U.S. Air Force. Commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1971, he flew in Vietnam for two years and would later become Aircraft Commander in Plattsburgh, New York. He retired as Captain in 1981.

Gary maintained his love for flying, and later in life would own Bonanza and Cessna airplanes. He loved flying friends and family on his fictitious airline affectionately known as "Gary Air." He attended the annual Experimental Aircraft Association airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin many times – enjoying the experience of a weeklong camping trip more than once with his wife and daughter at his side. Endlessly giving of his time and talent, he was active in the Young Eagles program, giving more than 300 children an introductory flight into the world of aviation.

Diagnosed with cancer in his 20s, Gary was given a very low chance of survival. Too stubborn to accept it, he survived and thrived. He lived every day as a blessed man with the gift of time on this earth. A skilled sailor, Gary and his wife lived and sailed joyfully around the Bahamas for 14 years. He was endlessly capable, with the ability to build or fix almost anything and an adept knowledge of computers and technology.  He loved gadgets and gizmos and was often among the first to adopt the latest trend.

Warmhearted and gregarious, Gary was always quick with a joke and a laugh. Strongly devoted to his wife, daughter, and extended family, he never underestimated the power of being present in the moment and remained an active member in the lives of those he held dear, overcoming the miles with his airplanes and caring spirit alike.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Wiley Higgins. He is survived by Valerie Wiley, his wife of 45 years; his daughter, Kaleigh Zehr; her husband, Marcus Zehr; and many other extended family members who loved him dearly.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 522 High Street, Portsmouth, Virginia. The family will receive friends an hour prior at the church. Burial will follow at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary's honor to the Fisher House Foundation . Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.