Michael Wayne Wiley, 65, Orange

Michael Wayne Wiley, Sr, AKA Papa, passed into the loving arms of those who’ve gone before us and the Lord Jesus on February 22nd, 2023.

Mike was born and raised in Orange, TX to Kenneth and Jeanette Wiley on August 27th, 1957. In his 65 years, he led a life of service. He was a pipefitter, guard, inspector, volunteer firefighter, and a caregiver to his wife for the last couple of decades. He never met a stranger, and he loved helping others. He was always telling his life story to anyone that would listen. He could even be seen for years around Southeast Texas playing Santa Claus.

Wild Man Wiley, as he was known in his football years, had many hobbies. He enjoyed watching videos of adventures on trains around the world, Diver Dan, and restorations. As for Movies-“Gillman”-Creature from the Black Lagoon was his go-to but he was not one to turn down a good war movie or western. Different facts about anything was his speciality, and he was sure to share them! He loved joining in for games-especially the marathon Phase 10 games he played with his daughter MJ (Who usually won . . . sorry Dad). He was an avid fisherman since childhood who knew all the best spots and loved heading out to them with his son, Mikie. (That is-if he didn’t fall in the water first!)

But perhaps the greatest of all his hobbies . . . was his six grandkids. He loved and breathed for those babies.

They were the joy of his life. He visited them every chance he could-even driving across the state if needed. Little league, elementary, middle, high school, dance recitals, games, plays, trips to the park and zoo-it didn’t matter, he was there. If they were sick, he was there caring for them, no matter the consequences. He would brag to anyone who would listen about his five granddaughters and his little sidekick.

Left to cherish his memory are his High School Sweetheart and Wife of 46 years-Sherri Dee who he loved to sing to. His sons and daughters (because he refused to believe in “In-Laws”, you were family the minute he met you) - Mike Jr and Rebecca Wiley; Mary-Jewel and Alex Sfarjilani. The six joys of his life - Chelsea Wiley, Alyssa Wiley, Ryleigh Sfarjilani, Makenna Wiley, Ethan Sfarjilani, and Aubrie Wiley. His amazing brothers and sisters - Kenneth and Rose Wiley, Linda and Melvin Riddick, and Jeannie and Jerome Silva. Along with so very many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and extended family.

Visitation will be at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas Saturday, March 4th 2023 from 1-3pm.

Celebration of Life to follow at 3pm.

During the Celebration of Life - we would love for those who knew and loved Mike to share their stories and memories of him.