Irby Sheck Exley Sr.

Irby Sheck Exley Sr., 89, passed away Dec. 30, 2010, at St. Catherine Laboure Manor in Jacksonville, Fla.
He was born Aug. 22, 1921, in Effingham County, one of eight children of Abner and Myra Pace Exley. He married Virginia Elizabeth Wilkes, his beloved wife of 63 years, March 30, 1947.
Mr. Exley received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural engineering from the University of Georgia in 1943. He then served his country in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in World War II throughout the European theater. Postwar, he owned several area car dealerships, including Westside VW.
Mr. Exley was an avid and lifelong supporter of philanthropic activities throughout Jacksonville, including leading local divisions of the United Way, Goodwill and Rotary Club. He was a member of Ortega United Methodist Church for 43 years, serving in many capacities. Together with his wife, Virginia, he donated the Exley Wilkes Chapel to the Wesley Foundation of the University of Georgia. He was also a leader in many area professional organizations.
He is survived by his wife, Virginia Wilkes Exley, and daughter, Elizabeth Exley, as well as two granddaughters, Sarah Exley Paulsen and Laura Elizabeth Paulsen and a sister, Lora Exley Kight. He was preceded in death by his two sons, I. Sheck Exley Jr. and Edward Wilkes Exley.
A memorial service was held at Ortega United Methodist Church on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011.
Memorial contributions may be made to the United Way or the Ortega United Methodist Church.