Don Michael Wrye

Don was born December 2, 1947, in Hazlehurst, Georgia to John Daniel Wrye Jr and Cassie Louise (Jump) Wrye. Don was preceded in death by his only sibling: Joyce Javene (Wrye) Bailey Suggs and by son in law Dwane Edward Smith.

Don was a dedicated, loving Husband and Father whose work ethic, faith, and talents would benefit and comfort those fortunate enough to be in his presence. His discipline and tireless efforts to support his family, the ones he loved, and those in his community are evident by his many accolades and the stories of the people he has inspired and provided comfort and love for. He will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege of knowing him. Whether it was teaching his kids how to throw a tight spiral, swim with barracudas in Guantanamo Bay, or dig out a snow cave with his A-team in the Wasatch mountains, he enjoyed life and sharing it with others.

Don received his Juris Doctorate at Brigham Young University, Utah. He served in the Coast Guard from 1966-1970; Army Reserve National Guard 1973-1974; Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Don M. Wrye was a Judge Advocate General and regulatory officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, primarily known for his work in the Office of Chief Counsel from 1979-1995. He specialized in vessel documentation, maritime safety regulations, and merchant marine personnel; Prosecutor for Salt Lake City, UT 1997-2001; Public Defender for Jefferson County, WV 2003-2020.

Don was defined by his testimony and love of Jesus Christ. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he gave tirelessly of his time and talents. He served faithfully in many capacities, leaving a lasting impact on those he led and served. Notably, he presided as Branch President of the Hancock Branch, and later provided wise counsel and dedicated service as a member of the Martinsburg Stake High Council.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years: Brenda Louise (McMillion) Wrye; and his five children: Shannon Lynn (Wrye) Faith and her husband Michael, Hancock, MD; Shon-David Michael Wrye and wife Jamie, Falling Waters, WV; Seth-Daniel Timothy Wrye and wife Heather, Saint-Martin; Shilo Erin (Wrye) Smith, Falling Waters, WV; Jon-Paul Stephen Wrye and wife Tesa, Berryville, VA. He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren who lovingly called him "Grand-daddy": Bethany (Faith) Wagner and husband Aaron; Liam Faith and wife Drea; Evan Wrye; Kaitlin (Wrye) Bennett and husband Zach; Chris Wrye and wife Ashley; Justin Wrye and wife Gabi; Madison Wrye; Nik Wrye; Lauren (Wrye) Stevens and husband Will; Ethan Wrye; Paige (Faith) Snyder and husband Ty; Gavin Wrye and wife Eliza; Landon Wrye and wife Kelsee; Emma Wrye and Nathaniel; Aidan Faith; Alex Wrye; and Eamon Faith; his 4 step-grandchildren Dustin Ecton and wife Kristin; Brett Smith and companion Danielle; Lexi (Smith) Hoeltje and husband Brett; Claire Unger; and Chloe Unger. He also has 8 great grandchildren Kaelan and Cillian Wagner; Rowan, Malcolm, and Desmond Bennett; Princeton and Kiomi Wrye; and William Wrye; and 9 step-great grandchildren, Trevor, Audrey, Nora and Margaret Ecton; Kamryn Gomez, Kennedy and Brett Smith Jr; Mila and Maci Hoeltje. Don, Dad, Grand-Daddy, Great Grand-Daddy, has left a huge legacy for his 5 children, 21 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren.

2 Nephi 25:23

"For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do."

A funeral service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 93 Langston Blvd. Martinsburg, WV on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM with a viewing that morning from 10:00-11:00 AM.

Burial will be at Rosedale Cemetery at 917 County Route 45/6, Martinsburg, WV on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 12:00 PM.

Funeral Services are under the care and direction of Rosedale Funeral Home & Cemetery.