Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
John Wiley Obituary
Family-Placed Death Notice
WILEY, John, III JOHN ROY WILEY III Mr. John Roy Wiley III, 65 of Marietta died Friday, February 25, 2011. Mr. Wiley was a United States Air Force veteran, serving as a decorated pilot during the Vietnam Era. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a BA in English where he began his flying career. Mr. Wiley retired from U.S. Airways as a Senior Captain and Instructor. He became an internationally recognized journalist, twice receiving the Aerospace Journalist of the Year award. His legendary quick wit was frequently on display when he appeared on CNN as the Aviation Correspondent. He recently returned from Iraq where he worked as an Aviation Safety Expert consulting for KBR. He was a man of strong faith who served at the Mt. Paran North Church of God in Marietta, Georgia for many years as an Elder. He was actively involved in the inter-denominational North Georgia Tres Dias Community since 1999. John is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Wiley, his beautiful daughters, Stephanie Wiley and Ashley Blake Wiley both of Marietta; his mother, Frances Wiley of College Park, GA; his sister and brother-in-law, Norma and Bobby Ballard of Conyers, GA; nephew, Mark Ballard of Denver, CO; niece, Cyndi Johnson of Conyers, GA. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. from the chapel of H.M. Patterson & Son, Canton Hill Chapel in Marietta with Rev. James Byrd officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Georgia National Cemetery with full military honors. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John's memory can be made to: Angel Flight (a group that transports sick children for care) at www.angel flight.com Online condolences may be expressed also at www.hm pattersoncantonhill.com. H.M. Patterson & Son, Canton Hill Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Mr. John R. Wiley III.
View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mike Oakey
February 20, 2019
Hard to believe its been eight years since Johns passing. I think if him often and miss our conversations and emails. Praying that Johns family is doing well
Jim Popovich
December 4, 2012
It's been 36 years since John and I last communicated and I don't know why I was prompted to google him today. Nonetheless, I'd like to share some memories I have of John. We met at Castle AFB,Ca, during our qualification training as copilots in the KC-135. During that summer of 1970 we shared some of our exoeriences in VietNam, but basically we wanted to just put that behind us and have a good time...which we did. Neither of us were assigned base housing so we recieved $16 per day over and above our other pay. He rented the manager's apartment above the lobby of the Pine Cone Inn in Merced CA. I rented a small apartment in a house in the same city. Our class, flight, and social schedule put is constant contact during that three months. At the end of the training we were scheduled to take our flight evaluation together. The day before, we spent several hours by the inn's pool studying manuals, procedures, and checklists. Finally when we both were saturated we slammed the books shut and headed for a chinese restaurant in town. On a whim we ordered the dinner for 12 and shared it with the other patrons. The next day we went through prebriefing with our checkpilot, a major and a very somber, no nonsense character. On the crew bus, riding out to the airplane, I noticed John had a good sized paper bag along with his professional gear. We flipped a coin to see which of us would the exterior preflight and the other would do the interior. I got the exterior. When I turned around John was just getting off the bus. However, he had on a huge grin, sported a gigantic pair of sunglasses (think Disneyland) and was pulling a toy, wooden duck behind him that quacked and flapped its wings with each wheel rotation. Our check pilot didn't see the humor and immediately started making notes. I, on the other hand, had to sit down I was laughing so hard. After the laughter subsided I just said to John, "Yuo know, now we're going to have to water this guys eyes". And we did. It was widely known that Strategic Air Command evaluations were held the day following the flight. This allowed the evaluator to review notes, confirm references to support discrpancies and decide on an overall grade. We got on the bus. Our evaluator looked at both of us. Shook his head and started laughing. His comment after that was, "We'll debrief at the bar". Needless to say we did very well on the evaluation. John and I crossed paths again at Utapao and a few times later. Many more wonderful memories. I had a navigator once use a phrase I think well described John. "Loose but professional" What a summer.
Michael Lauffer
August 9, 2012
Dear Joyce and family,
My wife and I just found out of John's passing two days ago. I happened to see a gentleman working out at my gym who had on a t-shirt that read Pilots for Christ. I was immediately drawn to him and started a conversation about pilots we both knew and John's name came up almost immediately. Both Pam and I were very saddened that we found out so late after John's passing since we certainly would have made his memeorial service.
John was a sensational person and a great pilot. I think back now and realize he probably had more affect on my pilot life than any pilot I ever came in contact with. John was my first aircraft commander on the KC-135 and we shared many deployments together. I remeber one of the first ones when we deployed to Thailand for 95 days when I was a very new 1st lt. co-pilot. I remember flying a approach back in to Utapao Air Base one aftenoon and being real proud of my approach and landing. On roll out I asked John, what did yoou think of that and he responded yoou were 3 knots fast on final. He always told me why settle for being off speed, course heading, altitude or whatever when you can be right on if you work at it.. that advise stuck with me throughout my 40 year flying career and I am sure it probably kept me out of trouble on many occassions.. John will be sorely missed by my wife and I and we are only sorry that we didn't stay in closer contact over the past 5 years or so. John was truly a great man and a dear friend. And we will truly miss him. Godspeed John R. Wiley III. You made a great impact on myself and I am sure many others that you came in contact with.. We all loved you dearly..Mike Lauffer, retired American Airlines and The Ohio Air Nat'l Guard
April 5, 2011
I was John's sister and he was a great brother. I miss him so much. Even though
we didn't talk everyday or week I always knew he was there for me when I did call. I know he is where the Lord wants him to be and I know he is in a better place than I but there is such a whole in my heart now. I know grief is not a dwelling place and I will do my best to get through it with God's help.I love you, John.
Norma
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Janet Powell
March 15, 2011
John Wiley was a wonderful, intelligent and professional pilot to fly with at Piedmont/USArways. I hope it helps his family to know that God is holding their loved one in his arms and holding them in his heart. Thoughts and prayers are with John's family. Janet Chatman Powell Retired F/A Piedmont/USAirways
Jim Wagner
March 10, 2011
To the family and friends of John Wiley,
I knew and flew with John at US Airways. We always had a great trip! He had a wonderful sense of humor and was the consumate professional in the cockpit. I shall miss him. My sympathies to you, his family and friends. My prayers go out to you.
T. Mayo
March 8, 2011
A great man that will be missed by all that new him and read his work.
Patricia Chiarelli
March 7, 2011
Dear Mrs. Wiley, Stephanie and Ashley,
I never met John, but made his acquaintance through an aviation website. He was smart, witty and humble---a wonderful combination in a person.
While I'm not a pilot, I am involved in aviation as a flight attendant for a charter airline which transports U.S. troops. His being a veteran and a pilot gave him great perspective in both areas. He provided me, as well as countless others involved in aviation and the military with priceless advice and perspective. He always conducted himself with class and sometimes restraint (!) when challenged by those much less knowledgeable and experienced than him. He didn't brag of his accomplishments and only let a few people in on his identity and history. I felt privileged to be among those few people.
I was scheduled to be in ATL the last weekend in February and would have welcomed the opportunity to meet John, but alas, it wasn't to be.
His untimely loss is a blow to the aviation community as well as you, his family.
He was so proud of all of you and always spoke glowingly of you 3. I have twin teenage daughters who have tested my patience. and John was always telling me how proud he was of his 2 girls.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that he will be missed by many. many people.
Tailwinds to John.......
Sincerely,
Patricia Chiarelli
March 7, 2011
Please accept our deepest sympathies.We are sorry to hear of the loss of Mr Wiley.May your family find much comfort from this scripture, Psalms 47:1 Atlanta,Ga.
Capt. Mike Bradberry
March 6, 2011
Ms Wiley, Stephanie and Ashley,
It was my sincere pleasure to meet John and 'jerk gear' for him while we both flew at Piedmont. Although that was years ago, John stays unchanging as I remember him.
The quickness of his 'dispatch' reminds us all that life "is but a vapor" and there are more and greater adventures ahead.
In this time of remembering and grief I revel in the memory of John's originality and uniqueness. We don't have to scratch too hard to come up with nice things to say . . . he taught me life lessons about integrity, sticking together when times got tough and embracing difficult circumstances in order to learn from them.
John had a saying that I confess I use today with others. "Don't let me stand in the way of original thought" he would quip. . . . and he never did.
Please be comforted with the life he led, the husband and father that he was and the knowledge that you will see him again. Gal. 5:1(a)
M R
March 5, 2011
I am sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in the scripture below along with love from friends and families
2 Cor 1:3,4
March 4, 2011
Dear Joyce,
I am so sorry for your sudden loss. I am praying for you, Ashley and Stephanie during this difficult time.
Norah McKay
Martha deJarnette Varney
March 3, 2011
I remember the Wileys from College Park United Methodist Church. Our parents were close friends and I graduated one year behind John. Our prayers are with all of you. Please remember us to his mother. My brothers join me in sending sincere sympathy.
Jack, Frank (Kelton) and Martha deJarnette (Martha Varney)
Carol Russell
March 3, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great person and alwasy nice to fly with. Ran a good ship. ILM F/A Carol Russell Judy Littrell
Katherine Wurst
March 3, 2011
Dear Joyce, Stepanie, and Ashley,
You have all been in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry about the loss of your husband and father. May our Heavenly Father give you peace and comfort during this time.
Bob Gattanella
March 3, 2011
So sorry to hear about John,s passing.He was a excellent pilot and instructor. My prayers are with
the family.
Joe Lawrence
March 3, 2011
I did not have the pleasure of knowing John until the last 2 or 3 years when we began sharing an airplane hanger at Cherokee County after he bought the Swift. John was always pleasant and fun to talk to, and off to another adventure. I wished I had taken the opportunity to get to know him better. Maybe we will get another chance to share an airplane hanger at the big airport in the sky, and this time we will not both be so busy! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vince Hood
March 3, 2011
Joyce,
Please accept my condolances. I very much enjoyed working with as well as flying with John. He was indeed an interesting person. I am so glad that he was able to spend the past two months at home with you.
John and Carol McDougal
March 2, 2011
Joyce, it's been a very long time, but we are shocked, as we know you are. Please accept our love and condolances at this horrible time in your life. Know that he is with our Father, and flying around free and happy.
George Barnes
March 2, 2011
I was a member of 68d Dust Devils pilot training class. I remember John as a fine pilot but also as a very fun loving person that liked people & life. He will be missed. George Barnes
March 2, 2011
Joyce, Stephanie & Ashley:
What sad news to hear about John. He was a great friend and we had some wonderful times in OPM. He always had time to chat and his love for you three was written on his face. We lost a good one.
Bob Ross
Statham, Ga
Bill Wilkerson
March 2, 2011
As a fellow Piedmont/USAirways pilot, I'm saddened to hear of John's passing. He was the consummate professional pilot at all times. As Flight Manager of the Boeing 737 Program, I witnessed John's good work towards our effort to improve our system. My sympathy to his family and friends. Capt.Bill Wilkerson, retired
Capt. Bill Wilkerson, retired
March 2, 2011
As a fellow Piedmont/USAirways pilot I'm sadden to hear of John's passing. He was the consummate professional pilot at all times. As Flight Manager of the Boeing 737 Program I wittiness John's good work towards our effort to improve our system. My sympathy to his family and friends.
Les Wilson
March 2, 2011
I knew John as a high school football player and a member of the College Park High marching band-always a fun-loving guy and always ready for a good time-a good offensive lineman as well-the Wiley family was highly regarded in College Park- a good guy from a good family
March 2, 2011
We have lost friend and truly great aviator. I knew John from Piedmont/US Airways and we were good friends. I always had great conversations and great respect for him. He will be missed.
Capt Donald Krstich (Ret)
Mark Oltjenbruns
March 2, 2011
I remember up at Cherokee County Airport. A fellow hanger mate said. I saw you buzz my cove , tree top level up at Lake Lanier two weeks ago... I said no, the Swift has a new care taker, John Wiley. The gentlemen said what a pilot he is,flying like that ! I said John Wiley is incredable in his flying skills.
Every time now, I look to the sky. I will know that John is up there flying, smiling at us all.
John tail winds my friend !
March 2, 2011
Joyce,Girls,and family,
You are in my prayers and thoughts. The Lord will comfort and help you reach the place where only the good memories remain. I pray the Lord will bless and keep you at this time.
Paula Stockton
Robert Moorman
March 2, 2011
March 2, 2011
I've known John since the 1980s when he flew for Piedmont Airlines and I worked for Professional Pilot. John wrote several memorable aviation articles over the years. I was always impressed with the way he explained very complex subjects to those of us that were technically challenged. John had a crisp, no-nonsense style to his writing. To me, John was the Harvey Penick of aviation writers. Like the famed golf coach, readers of John's articles would learn and remember.
John was a consummate southern gentlemen, devoted father, gifted raconteur and friend. I will miss his counsel and company.
Robert Moorman,
Alexandria, Virginia
Jim Gardner
March 2, 2011
I'm in shock. We have lost a standard bearer for excellence in aviation. John was more than just a great pilot, he was a great guy. He was one of the most knowledgable and professional aviators I've know. I have always had a huge respect for him and will miss him greatly.
Ron Sherman
March 2, 2011
I met John more than 20 years ago...after my career in the Air Force. Yes, we swapted "war stories" but I really got to know him as an aviation writer. He accompanied me along with his fellow aviation journalists to visit Saab Aircraft facilities in Sweden. He was adamant about wanting to fly "those sweet Swedish jets" I was happy to comply and he had a ball (more than once). We talked often, I met his wonderful wife Joyce and the girls at his then new home in Georgia. He made a huge impact on my life and everyone around him...he will be missed so much. John, I know you will "touch the hand of God."
Roy Bishop
March 2, 2011
Joyce, Stephanie and Ashley,
John and I flew many flights together at Piedmont and US Airways, I like many others were so saddened by his sudden passing.
John was always a gentleman and excellent pilot, always quick to smile and what a great sense of humor. Being retired from the cockpit myself, sometimes you set back and think of some of the people you flew with over the years. Johns name is always at the top of the list. You can all be so proud of him. I certainly will miss him.You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Roy Bishop
Little River, SC
Mickey Littlefield
March 2, 2011
John and I were friends since we were 7 yrs old. We shared experiences all through school including college.You know you have something when you are a guard on the football team and an English Major.He was a very special person. Although he was a normal guy growing up, doing the things that normals guys do, he always had a strong spiritual faith that I admired even as a kid. No, I haven't meet many John Wiley's,he was special.
Jay Donoghue
March 2, 2011
John wrote several aviation stories for me that were published in Air Transport World magazine. John was a good writer, clear and concise, yet with personality. He was easy to work with and fun to talk to. I will miss John.
Jay Donoghue
Keith and Lucy Kowalski
March 2, 2011
Dear Joyce,
So sorry to hear of your loss. May Jesus comfort you and your girls in extraordinary ways, and may He eventually dry each tear. We will be praying for you in the coming days.
March 1, 2011
What a great loss. In addition to having been a master pilot (his personal airplane was a vintage Swift) and expert on all things aeronautical, John was graced with a side-splitting sense of humor.
I knew John for more than 20 years and will cherish many memories of meetings and meals in which he held forth, entertaining us with hilarious stories of his exploits or truly unique observations on current affairs.
His articles on technique and safety represent a valuable contribution to the aviation lexicon.
I will miss him as much for that -- and what I learned from him during our wide-ranging conversations and e-mail exchanges -- as for his humor and friendship. -- Dave Esler, Berkeley, Calif.
--------------------------------
I was saddened to hear of the passing of John Wiley.
The one glimmer of sunshine in this unfortunate event is that I shall always treasure memories of my final hour in John's company. We were passing time in the newsroom before the front page of last Farnborough edition of Show News was signed-off. A lively and wide ranging discussion of all possible matters aeronautical was punctuated by video clips as we downloaded imagery to support our conversation — from B-52s ploughing into the ground during ill-planned air displays to Hale & Pace's hilarious 'advertisement' for "Yorkshire Airlines". John had wide experience of, and a great interest in, aviation in all its senses.
Furthermore, he was the only American I have ever met (or, perhaps, ever will do) who could instantly recognise a Gloster Javelin. On that one count alone, he gained my instant and everlasting respect.
Paul Jackson, London
-----------------------------
As editor of Business & Commercial Aviation magazine, I've long known John as both a writer and a friend. And he was masterful in both those roles.
A keen observer of the world and people around him, a life-long student and lover of language, an expert in the science of aviation, a teacher mindful and respectful of his charges, an habitual self-effacer yet poison to puffery, and an artful storyteller of the first order, John was an editor's delight, a writer's writer.
Oh, how I delighted with his latest manuscript arrived, for I was sure of two things: 1. I would learn something, and 2. I'd have a good time while doing No. 1.
Too, when the deadlines became too pressing, the To Do's piled too high, the hours too long, copy too disjointed, I'd often get an email or, better, a call from Captain Wiley, sir, and the burden would lift noticeably as he shared the latest human silliness, bureaucratic nonsense or, often, piece of literature so fine that it simply suspended any immediate concern until it was done.
John's storytelling came easily and quickly. Often a word or phrase would trigger a recollection that recounted in that wonderfully sophisticated drawl made it a special treat.
One that comes to mind (and I've likely got some details wrong) was about a time early in his flight training when asked a crusty colonel if he could simply sit in a particular plane he was to fly the next day for the first time and learn all the switches, instruments and such so they'd be familiar once airborne.
The colonel agreed, but admonished him to stay clear of the red handle.
Why's that, sir?
Lieutenant, that handle releases the drop tank and requires about ten hours of maintenance to put everything right. So don't touch it.
Yes, sir.
Off he goes to the airplane and spends a half hour or so going over everything. He exits and walks back to the colonel and salutes.
Get good and familiar with the airplane, son?
Yes, sir, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow's flight. But there's just one thing.
What's that?
That red handle is really tough to move….
A long, long stare, then…
Lieutenant, I'm going to be watching you…
John likened how it was that way throughout his Air Force so-called career, as he called it. They were unsmiling and watched his every move.
He was a wonderful man, and I will miss him a lot. We all will. Godspeed John.
-- Bill Garvey, Ridgefield, Connecticut
Kimberly Wakefield
March 1, 2011
Joyce, Stephanie, and Ashley,
I am deeply saddened by the earthly loss of John. Prayers of peace, comfort, and hope have been lifted on your behalf. You and your extended family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Dave Stone
March 1, 2011
John was a great guy to work with or just to be around. I had the pleasure of flying with John many times and it was a pleasure to have know him
March 1, 2011
I also was a classmate of John's both at College Park High and in College Park Methodist Church.
John is a friend that will be missed by everyone who knew him.
My sympathy to the family and everyone who knew and loved John.
Mike Windom
an
March 1, 2011
“A name is better than good oil, and the day of death than the day of one’s being born. Better is the end afterward of a matter than its beginning.” (Ecc.7:1,8)
John made a good name for himself, and his life was fulfilling. While we celebrate his life, his ending is still bittersweet. We all look forward to the time when “death will be swallowed up forever,” and we will see John again right here on earth. (Isai. 25:8; Psa. 37:29)
May these promises bring you peace and hope for a better future here on earth, which only God’s Kingdom can bring. (Matt.6:9,10)
Sincerely,
Alex Newman
Renee and Steve McKenzie
March 1, 2011
Dear Joyce and girls, Renee and I offer our sympathies and our love during this very sad time. We pray that you guys will be surrounded by the love of Jesus and feel His tangible presence through your family and friends.
Lloyd and Renee Brown
March 1, 2011
John will certainly be missed by us. I have such a sweet memory of John at the Ladies Retreat a couple of years ago. He had a red bow-tie on and was happier than I had ever seen him. He, along with others, were serving all us ladies lunch, and he was thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. I tried to get up to get something and he would not allow it! Lloyd loved hanging out with John and talking to him because he was such an interesting and smart man, and he was hilarious. Our love and prayers are with you Joyce, Stephanie and Ashley. Praying for John's entire family.
March 1, 2011
To the Wiley family, I graduated from high school with John, class of 63 and remember John for his smile and kind words. I am so sorry for your loss. Wanda Kennemore Hicks
Marsha Smith-Faulk
March 1, 2011
I was a classmate of John's at College Park High School. John will be missed - although I haven't seen him since the early 70's, John never changed. Had such a wonderful sense of humor!! My sympathies to the family.
Jim Pressell
March 1, 2011
We are keeping you in our prayers! My best rememberance of John was when I was leading a Men's Retreat, Tres Dias, and John was one of four who waited on the men in the conference room. Of course, the other three were Lynwood, Richard and Ed. John came in wearing a black tights with a black top and a pink toto. He then proceded to do his best River Dance. Everyone enjoyed his antics. He was a blessing to many people and we will miss him.
Andrew Niemyer
March 1, 2011
I came to know John "Wiley-Dog" through the Aviation Special Interest Group, the oldest flying forum on the 'net. We shared many a tale and story, finally meeting when he came to Duluth a few years ago to write about Cirrus Design. It was like we'd been fast friends since "back in the day." I will miss his wit, his insights and most of all his deep and abiding humanity and sense of humor. He kept me smiling.
Leigh Roberts
March 1, 2011
To the Wiley family. John was a great example of a "Professional Pilot". He carried confidence and talent where he went. A good steward of his gift. Always a smile and positive attitude. John and I attended an Atlanta Aero Club meeting just last Wednesday. I will have fond memories of his friendship.
Ron and Marcy Hardy
March 1, 2011
John-- was at one time a dear friend and a dear brother. He is a very smart and thoughtful man, now with Jesus-- where I believe he will be incharge of answering all the hard questions-- because while here on earth-- he certainly asked them. Joyce: Ron and I are praying for you and knowing you are surrounded by great friends and love-- we are so sad-- so very sad. If you need anything from Ron and I please ask us-- we care deeply
Ron and Marcy Hardy
Mike Oakey
March 1, 2011
John..I just can't wrap my hands around this..I just read your email to me dated the 24th of Feb...You asked how my health was and I said getting better each day and I asked about you...You sent a picture of a B-52 cockpit that I had flown in the Air Force..We were based at Wurtsmith AFB together..We worked together during the 1997 contract in media relations..Good times..I'll miss emailing you two to three times a week and our talks of Vietnam and the Airlines..God bless and keep you and your family, John..I'll sign off as I always did...2/LT Mike Oakey, USAF, RET,at 1533 hours, PM, in the afternoon, Ubon time....I'm going to really miss you my friend
March 1, 2011
John and I graduated together at College Park High. I think he and I were the only two in our class to see duty in Viet Nam, at least we were the only two who told war stories at the runions. He will be missed.
LTC Paul Sinor, USA (Ret)
Pensacola, FL
Freddy Jones
March 1, 2011
It seems like yesterday John and I were guards on the College Park High football team, and actors in the Senior play for the Class of 1963. He was a friend that I will miss.
Brad Taylor
March 1, 2011
Stephanie & Ashley: Even though we have never met I feel I know you very well. Your Dad was so proud of you and loved to talk about his girls. When my own daughter was born, John searched me out to offered some of his witty advice on how to raise perfect little girls. I will never forget the trips I flew with John and the conversations we had. He was truely one of a kind. You and your Mother are in our prayers and thoughts. Brad and Shelley Taylor
March 1, 2011
Joyce,
My sincere condolences to you and your family for your loss. I was one of John’s classmates at College Park High and again at the University of Georgia and thought a lot of him. He will be a loss not only to his family, but also to a lot of others on whose life he had a positive influence.
Ed Patmore, Winder, Georgia
March 1, 2011
Harold Hardee
I know that we will all see John again on that most wonderful day when we meet our Lord face to face. I know that John is experiencing a joy that can't be explained and so shall he ever be with our Lord.
March 1, 2011
John..I will miss you...you were alway a go to friend, and great pilot..You will be missed. Ray Axley Captain Usairways
Medlock Family
March 1, 2011
Ashley-
We are so very sorry for you and your families loss. We know what an important part your father has played in your life. We pray he will continue to guide you through life with his love.
May God bless you and keep you strong.
Nicole Black
February 28, 2011
Steph and Ashley, we r so sorry for your loss. Daddy's are something noone can replace! Joyce, I send you my love!!!!
Rick Parker
February 28, 2011
It is so hard to describe all that I liked about John. He was always such a joy to fly with. I will always smile when I think about his wit and charm, and how much fun it was just to bump into him for a few minutes. Just seeing him coming was enough to make my day brighter.
I will always remember, John, and thanks for letting me know you.
Heaven just got better.
Tom Sheehan
February 28, 2011
Joyce, I am so sorry for your loss. Since my retirement I have talked to John a few times about our post airline flying jobs. John and I were both hired the same year and checked out as captains in Norfolk at the same time. I always looked forward to commuting with him Atlanta to Norfolk. I will never forget one of his first Captain announcements while I was in the back of his B737. "Tempus Fugit, Time flys and so shall we, flight attendants take your stations for departure" He always made flying fun in a very professional manner. Tempus Fugit my friend on your Westward Flight.
Amy Bass
February 28, 2011
OMGosh...even tho' I retired 3 yrs ago (after 41 yrs )and had not seen John in ages one look at his picture brought back all the wonderful memories!! I could HEAR his voice and laugh and words of advice for whatever was ailing ME!!
He was certainly one of the best; a keeper for sure! And, I shall keep my wonderful memories! Best to you...his family I never knew...but heard all about!
Amy Bass fight attendant
Braniff, Piedmont and USAir.
Valerie Wells
February 28, 2011
Family, I remember John from the time I started at Piedmont; when the airline magazine selection included the New Yorker, and we would discuss the articles and laugh at the cartoons. I still read the New Yorker, and I still fondly recall our shared reading.
Valerie Wells
Piedmont/USAirways
Dennis Almond
February 28, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Captain John. It was truly an honor to have worked with such a wonderful person. Not only an excellent aviator and instructor but a man of faith and honor. May God bless your family. John, have a great flight west my friend!
Ty Lee
February 28, 2011
John John John - I am so sad to hear you are gone. It seems like yesterday when we started class at Piedmont - July 0f '78 - You the oldest "first officer" and me the youngest "last officer". The good times we shared seem too short but I still have great memories of those times. We were so young and ran around like children shouting "We got an Airline job!". Were were and still are so proud. Jackie just reminded I met her through you and you got her hired at Piedmont. We have been together 30 years now. She misses you. Words are not enough - so I will close. To your family - I am sure they know how much you were admired and loved by all you touched and please take care of each other, as he would, as life goes forward. As you always called me - James Tyler
Russell Maugans
February 28, 2011
Dear Joyce and family,
I am just so saddened by the loss of John. He was, as you know, a friend, mentor, and a man we all respected and admired. He will be sorely missed.
Russell Maugans
Keeling (Buster) McLin
February 28, 2011
John I flew my last co-pilot trip with you at Piedmont and you gave me your captain epaulets to wear on my new uniform...I loved flying with you and you will be greatly missed...GOD SPEED old friend...Buster
Rene Blanco
February 28, 2011
I am in shock to say the least. For years of knowing John and our numerous participation in several aviation forums, this is a very sad day for me.
John always the knowleadgeable, witty, and gentle, but concerned for others, great teacher. John's mark as an individual, brought pride to our Aviation community and left his mark in many areas that will have an ultimate effect in its future.
God Bless you my friend, we'll meet again soon.
Rene Blanco
Captain A320 Airbus
Piedmont/USAirways
USAPA Safety Committee
February 28, 2011
Joyce and girls, Mrs.Wiley joins me in conveying our mutual condolences and the assurance that you will each be in our prayers during the coming days.
Dr. William Lloyd Wiley
Charlotte, NC
Phil Gibson
February 28, 2011
John Wiley, I can remember commuting with you from ATL-CLT-ATL like it was yesterday. Sitting beside you and talking about your passions, beliefs, values. You had talents that I so admired and respected. We did some great things together, and I'm proud to have known you, both professonally and personally.
Sandra Foster
February 27, 2011
Dear Joyce,
So sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your husband. Praying for you, your family and friends as you move through the coming days. May each of you sense the presence of our great loving Heavenly Father bringing sure comfort as only He can. May His peace be yours in abundance, Sandra Foster
Ann Wright
February 27, 2011
John Wiley, I will miss you, but I will remember you every time I see a man wearing loafers with NO socks! Thank you for your kindness & encouragement to our family. One more thing...You can get back on the bike now!
The Scotts
February 27, 2011
Stephanie-
We are so sadden by the loss of your Dad. Take care of you Mom and the rest of your family. Let us know if there's anything we can do.
Stuart and Lindsey's family
The Brim Family
February 27, 2011
We are keeping you in our prayers!!! Praying that God continues to surround each of you the strength, comfort, and peace that only He can provide. Many hugs and lots of love!
David Heekin
February 26, 2011
We were just boys together in the Air Force. My ex-wife said I loved John Wiley more than I loved her. It was the only time she was ever right about my feelings. I've carried a little of him with me every flight for 40 years. Godspeed, John. Save me a seat.
Showing 1 - 72 of 72 results
1157 Old Canton Road NE, Marietta, GA 30068
Make a Donation
in John Wiley's name
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Wiley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
