Mr. Hilrige Wendell Wiley

Mr. Hilrige Wendell Wiley was born in Overton, Texas, to the union of Eddie Wiley and Bertha Cole. He was one of

four children: Josephine Wiley-Anderson, Lorenzo Wiley, and Silas Wiley. All of whom have preceded him in death.

At an early age, he accepted Christ and joined Cool Springs CME Church, where he began his lifelong journey of

faith and service. This foundation guided his unwavering commitment to ministry throughout his life.

He attended Blaine High School in Arp, Texas, before relocating to Fort Worth, Texas, in 1943. There, he continued

his education at I.M. Terrell High School, graduating in 1948.

In October 1952, Mr. Wiley proudly enlisted in the United States military, where he served his country with honor

during the Korean War. During his service, he saw action on the front lines and received several commendations,

including the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

Following his military service, he attended Johnson Vocational School, where he earned a certification as a

bookkeeper. He began his professional career with Texas Electric and later became a civil service employee with the

United States Postal Service, where he faithfully served for 24 years before retiring.

In 1953, he was united in marriage to Ms. Johnie Jones. From this union, they were blessed with two beautiful

children, a daughter and a son, Debra and Kenneth. Their marriage lasted until 1965.

In 1969, he was united in marriage with his wife of over 50 years, Ms. Annie Bell Carter. Together they raised 5

children and celebrated many loving years enjoying each other. During the later years of Annie’s life, as her health

began to fail, Mr. Wiley lovingly served as her devoted caregiver, faithfully supporting and caring for her until her

passing.

Mr. Wiley was a devoted servant of God. In December 1983, he was ordained as an Elder and faithfully served the

Lord for over 30 years at St. Peter Presbyterian Church. Later, he became a member of Morning Chapel CME

Church, where he was certified as a trustee during two consecutive conference years under the leadership of Pastor

Kenneth Hollingsted. He continued his membership at Morning Chapel until the time of his passing.

Mr. Wiley’s service extended beyond the church walls, as he actively participated in community as a youth football

coach for the YMCA, a Scoutmaster for troop 205, feeding the homeless at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, supporting

such outreach ministries as Habitat for Humanity and conducting in-home visits to the sick and shut-in, offering prayer

and communion. As a result of his many efforts Mr. Wiley was known as a pillar in his community, recognized for his

generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

In his leisure time, Mr. Wiley enjoyed working in his yard and took great pride in maintaining an immaculate home and

landscape. He also enjoyed watching what he lovingly called “picture shows,” along with westerns and various sports,

especially baseball. He remained closely connected to his roots by frequently traveling back to Overton, Texas.

Mr. Wiley’s life was a testament to faith and service. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Mr. Wiley lived a long and full life, reaching the age of 98. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving family: his

daughter, Debra Cunningham (Charles); his son, Kenneth Wiley (LaShundra); and his stepson, Furmia Nealy, along

with his granddaughters Tamishla White, Debrienne Coleman (James), and Dr.Demetria Burleson

great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews