Garey Frank Staly, 81, of Taylors, SC, passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his wife and children. He was a warrior of the faith who laid down his earthly burdens to enter eternal life with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.
Born on May 20, 1945, in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Frank H. Staly and Anita L. Staly Goyette.
His life was forever transformed in 1977 when he met the Lord Jesus. For the next 49 years, God gave him a heart for the unborn, missions, the orphan, and children with special needs.
Garey loved his country. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, volunteering during the Vietnam War’s Tet Offensive (1968) and later in Korea (1978). He was honorably discharged from active duty service in 1981 with the rank of sergeant first class. He went on to be a police officer, a prison counselor, and a detective. He retired from commercial truck driving after driving over 3 million accident-free miles. Despite the long trips and challenging schedules, he made it a priority to ALWAYS make it home in time to cheer for his children’s special events.
Garey loved people, telling stories, shooting, Dunkin’ Donuts, hats, Christmas, McDonald’s hamburgers, and chocolate milk.
Everyone who knew him witnessed how he lived out the meaning of his entire name: Garey — “free man,” Frank — “loyal warrior,” and Staly — “nothing without labor.” Today Garey is truly free, his labors are over, and he’s gearing up for that last battle!
Garey was married to his surviving wife, Patricia “Bunny” Staly, for over 60 years. Together they lived, loved, laughed, and weathered many storms. He is also survived by his daughters: Tracy Staly, Amanda Neutkens (Eric), Allison Fuentes (Victor), Sajhia Staly, and Heaven Staly; and his grandchildren: Lucas Fuentes, Victor Alexander Fuentes, Felicity Neutkens, and Ira Neutkens. His family loved and adored him.
In addition to his parents, Garey is preceded in death by his beloved son: Garey Lee Staly; and his sister: Donna Mesmer.
Funeral Services will be held at 10am on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at North Hills Church, 4952 Edwards Rd, Taylors, SC, 29687. A committal will follow later the same day at 2pm on November 12, 2026, at the MJ Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery, 140 Inway Dr, Anderson, SC, 29621, with military honors. All are invited to attend.
The family will be at the home to receive friends and family following the committal service.
The Sosebee Mortuary and Crematory is assisting the family with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to World Mission Outreach (WMO). This ministry was dear to Garey’s heart. Garey’s friends, Henry and Darlene, founded WMO to spread the gospel to Jews and Gentiles across the globe and provide care to orphans.
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“Mine has been a hard pilgrimage,” he said, “and I have had to fight my way through many troubles and dangers. But I am going now to my true home in the Celestial City, where I shall be safe and happy forever.”
Little Pilgrim’s Progress, Chap. 93
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