Dr. Gary Guy Wilson

Dr. Gary Guy Wilson lived a life marked by creativity, curiosity, adventure, and, above all, a deep love for his family. An accomplished architect, devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, and lifelong adventurer, Gary leaves behind a legacy reflected not only in the buildings he designed but also in the relationships he cherished and the lives he touched.

Gary was born on April 13, 1941, at Cottonwood Hospital in Murray, Utah, to Francis Guy Wilson and Mary Elaine Glad Wilson. He grew up in Utah, where he met Carolyn, the love of his life and his devoted wife of 65 years. Together, they built a life rich in family, adventure, and shared experiences.

Gary's passion for architecture led him to earn a doctorate in the field and pursue a distinguished career as an architect and planner. In 1969, he founded Gary Guy Wilson Architects, establishing himself as one of Las Vegas' early influential architects. For more than five decades, Gary Guy Wilson Architects has contributed to the growth and transformation of the city, completing more than 5,000 projects that helped shape its ever-evolving architectural landscape. With an entrepreneurial spirit, creative vision, and unwavering dedication to his craft, Gary built a successful practice whose work remains woven into the fabric of Las Vegas.

His dedication to architecture extended beyond his own firm. A longtime member of the Las Vegas chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Gary served as chapter president and remained committed to the architectural community and future generations of architects. His contributions to architecture and education were recognized by his alma mater, the University of Utah's College of Architecture + Planning, which named a studio in his honor, a lasting tribute to his professional accomplishments and influence.

Gary also proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves and was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Beyond architecture, Gary possessed an adventurous spirit and an enduring curiosity about the world. He loved traveling, often choosing unfamiliar roads and scenic routes simply for the pleasure of discovering something new. A licensed pilot who owned his own airplane, he enjoyed flying to the family cabin and visiting architectural projects throughout the country. For Gary, the journey was often as enjoyable as the destination.

Gary found peace and happiness in nature, particularly with a fly rod in hand. From his beloved Clyde's Pond to the waters of Alaska, fly fishing was one of his greatest passions. He took special joy in sharing his love of the sport with friends and family, introducing many to its beauty, patience, and simple pleasures. He also enjoyed playing golf over the years, another opportunity to spend time outdoors.

Music held a special place in Gary's life. He enjoyed playing the piano, guitar, banjo, and trumpet, but the greatest pleasure came from sharing music with those he loved. Some of the family's fondest memories were made at the Boulder Cabin, where Gary would pick up his guitar and everyone would gather to sing familiar favorites. Those moments, filled with laughter, music, and togetherness, were never about perfection but about the joy of being together.

Above all, Gary treasured his family. Time spent with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews brought him immeasurable happiness. Whether gathered at the cabin, sharing an adventure, or simply enjoying one another's company, he cherished the opportunities to be surrounded by those he loved.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Guy Wilson and Mary Elaine Glad Wilson, and his brother, Max Wilson.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Carolyn; his son, G. Cash Wilson; his daughter, GiNie Vivirito, and her husband, Frank; and Meredith Holland, whom he and Carolyn lovingly embraced as a daughter, and her husband, Julian. He is also survived by his sisters, Claudia King and RaNae Hotz and her husband, Larry.

Gary's cherished grandchildren include Callyn and her husband, Jesse; Cole; Ella; McKenna; Nicholas; Sage; Sarah and her fiancé, Andrew; and Staford and his wife, Lauren.

He is also survived by nine beloved great-grandchildren: Christian, Jocelyn, Elvee, Autumn, Collier, Ruthe, Reginald, Leopold, and Silas, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Gary was a man who could envision and create remarkable structures, yet some of the most meaningful parts of his life could never be measured in blueprints or buildings. They were found in a cabin filled with family and familiar songs, the quiet beauty of a favorite fishing spot, and the unexpected discoveries along an open road.

Though he will be deeply missed, Gary's spirit lives on in the family he loved, the work he leaves behind, and the countless stories that will continue to be shared.

His was a life well lived, an adventure wholeheartedly embraced, and a legacy of love that will endure for generations.

A Celebration of Life honoring Dr. Gary Guy Wilson will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 9580 Peace Way, Las Vegas, NV 89147. Visitation will begin at 2:30 p.m., with the Celebration of Life service immediately following.

Family and friends are invited to gather, share cherished memories, and celebrate Gary's remarkable life.