Gary Raymond Coley

Gary Raymond Coley, 80, passed away peacefully at home in the early hours of October 10,2026. His family is heartbroken by his passing but deeply grateful for the time they shared with him and for the love and support of family and friends during this difficult time.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Gary lived a life marked by service, commitment, and devotion to his family. A proud Vietnam veteran, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and lifelong sports enthusiast, he leaves behind a legacy that will endure through the generations of family who loved him and the many lives he touched.

Gary was born on October 24, 1945, to Raymond and Sue Coley and grew up in Waco, Texas. He attended Brook Avenue Elementary School and West Junior High before graduating from Waco High School in 1964. An avid sports fan from an early age, he ran track and played basketball and football during junior high and high school. His love of sports remained a lifelong passion, bringing him enjoyment and providing a special way to connect with family and friends. Fittingly, one of his final conversations was with his grandson just two days before his passing, talking about the games coming up that weekend – a reflection of a lifelong interest that continued to bring him joy and connection with those he loved.

After attending Temple Junior College, Gary enlisted in the United States Army in 1966. His military service took him to Germany, Vietnam, and Japan before his honorable discharge. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal, as well as the Purple Heart in recognition of wounds sustained in service. His service to his country remains an important and enduring part of his legacy. His family will forever honor the courage and sacrifice he demonstrated during his time in uniform and remember with pride his place among the generation of Americans who answered their nation’s call to serve.

In 1966, Gary married Linda Carol Whitaker, beginning a marriage that would span 60 years and become the foundation of their family and life together. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, loyalty, and commitment—not only through the happy and fulfilling years they shared, but also through the difficult seasons that tested their strength.

For the last 15 years of Gary’s life, Linda lovingly and tirelessly cared for him at home as his medical challenges mounted and his physical abilities gradually declined. Her devotion was extraordinary, reflecting a depth of love that went far beyond words. Through the many demands and challenges of his care, she remained by his side, providing comfort, dignity, and the reassurance of a familiar home and a loving presence. Caring for someone through years of declining health requires tremendous patience, resilience, and selflessness. Linda gave Gary that care out of the enduring love they had shared for six decades. Her unwavering commitment stands as a powerful testament to the vows they made to one another in 1966 and the life they built together. Her love, devotion, and resilience are an important part of Gary’s legacy worthy of recognition in their own right.

Following his military service, Gary worked at the Waco Coca-Cola Bottling Company and later in the food service industry. Together, he and Linda raised their family and built a life rich in shared experiences, family connections, and memories that will be treasured for generations.

Gary’s greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind. He was a devoted husband to Linda, a proud father to his three children, and a loving grandfather to six grandchildren. His family brought him great joy, and the memories they created together will remain a lasting source of comfort and strength. Whether following his favorite sports or simply sharing time with those closest to him, Gary valued the connections that made life meaningful. Even in his final days, he continued to share his enthusiasm for sports with the next generation, leaving his family with a simple but treasured memory of a grandfather doing something he loved with someone he loved.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Coley, in 1996, and his mother, Sue SmithColey, in 2000.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 60 years, Linda Coley of Waco; his son, the Honorable Gary R. Coley, Jr., and his wife, Renee; his daughters, Christy Coley and Kerri Davison, and Kerri’s husband, Mitch; and his six grandchildren, Katie; Christopher and his wife, Olivia; Claire and her husband, Charlie; Stella; Hazel; and John. He is also survived by his sisters, Lynda Rhea and her husband, Jerry; and Mary Smith, along with special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the countless physicians, nurses, and therapists who cared for Gary throughout the years. Their skill, compassion, and dedication made a meaningful difference in his life and in the lives of those who loved him. A special thank you goes to Miguel

and the entire VA Home Health Care team, Centerwell Home Health, Visiting Angels, and Baylor Scott & White Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and support they provided to Gary and his family. Their care and dedication, particularly during the challenges of his later years, will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

May Gary rest in peace, honored for his service, remembered for his devotion, and forever cherished by the family who meant so much to him.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory for Gary in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.