Wiley Oliver

Wiley Herbert Oliver passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 28, 2014. Wiley was born at home outside of Ethel, Mississippi on September 24, 1929, the youngest son of Herbert and Mollie Oliver. Wiley grew up learning hard work and perseverance working on the family farm...and he joined the Navy ( like older brother Wayne) immediately out of high school to get off of the farm. Wiley met Bobbie Johnson on the square in Kosciusko during high school, and they were engaged for three years while Wiley served in the Pacific Theater. They were married on September 23, 1951, beginning a lifetime of love together that would span 62 years of marriage. Wiley and Bobbie lived in Seattle following their marriage. Wiley then joined the Navy Reserves, and they settled in Grand Prairie in 1952 because it was "within a day's drive to home (Mississippi)." Here they raised children Richard, Betsy, and Susan, and made a host of wonderful friends. Wiley served as a packaging specialist for the Department of Defense until his retirement. He became a 32nd degree Mason. He enjoyed working on cars, woodwork, and understanding how things work. Wiley even built a camper for his truck from scratch without any formal plans. The Olivers made many memorable family trips in it through the years. Wiley and Bobbie loved to travel, visiting almost every state through the years. He stayed busy working in the house, yard, and garage until the very end of his life.As a young boy Wiley placed his trust in Jesus Christ, assuring his eternity in Heaven and a time of family celebration for a life well lived and a new life with his Savior. Wiley was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lola Alexander, and sister Eva Ingram. Wiley is survived by wife Bobbie Oliver, son Richard Oliver and wife Shirley, daughter Betsy Martin and husband Greg, and daughter Susan Wadsworth and husband B. K. He is also survived by grandchildren Jason Oliver and wife Jennifer, Katy Martin, and Mitchell Martin and wife Chrissy, as well as great-grandchildren Michaela Oliver, Max Oliver, and Logan Martin. He is also survived by brother Wayne Oliver and wife Juanita and sister Alma Corley, and many loving nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the American Cancer Society.