Obituary published on Legacy.com by Cooper & Humbles Funeral Company Inc on Sep. 20, 2025.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."
Garrette Lyndon Wise, affectionately known as "Gary," was born on April 23, 1960, in New Church, Virginia, to the late Grace Bonneville-Wise. In the early morning hours of September 20, 2025, Gary finished his earthly journey at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, Maryland, following a brief illness. At the time of his passing, he resided in Pocomoke City, Maryland.
Gary received his formal education in the Accomack County Public School System of Virginia. Growing up in New Church, he was also lovingly called Speedy, Milt, and Turtle by those who knew his vibrant spirit. From his youth, he was rooted in faith-first at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in New Church, and later as a devoted member of First Corinthians Holiness Church in Pocomoke City, under the leadership of Bishop Mary Boyd. He not only worshiped there but also dedicated his time to volunteering-a true reflection of his giving heart.
Gary was a man of quiet strength and unwavering dedication, defined by his hardworking nature. At the time of his passing, he was employed with Perdue Farms in
Accomac, Virginia. In his earlier years, he also drove trucks with the same reliability and commitment that shaped every area of his life. Outside of work, Gary embraced simple joys that spoke volumes about his character. A die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, he was known for his short, quick, and straight-to-the-point phone calls that always carried his unmistakable wit. He delighted in visiting thrift shops and yard sales, often finding treasures and carefully organizing them with his meticulous nature. That same attention to detail could be seen in his pride for his vehicles-he loved cleaning and caring for his cars until they gleamed, a reflection of the order and precision he valued so deeply. Everything Gary touched bore his eye for neatness and care.
Though quiet by nature, Gary had a presence that spoke louder than words. He was loving, optimistic, and blessed with a humor that could lighten any room. He endured life's trials with grace and resilience, leaving be-hind a legacy of strength, faith, and laughter that his family and friends will forever cherish.
Of all his joys in life, none compared to the love he had for his daughter, Margaret. Their bond was unbreakable, built on laughter, encouragement, and countless shared moments. Gary was deeply proud of her, and she was his greatest treasure. The closeness they shared was a true reflection of his tender heart and the quiet yet stead-fast way he loved his family.
Gary was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Grace Bonneville-Wise; stepfather, Harry Wise Sr.; brothers, Edward Wise and Antonio Fletcher; and sister, Claudia Wise.
He leaves to celebrate his memory his devoted daughter, Margaret Crippen of Salisbury, MD; three brothers, Dexter (Marvella) Wise Sr. of Georgetown, DE, Darryl Wise Sr. of Pocomoke City, MD, and Harry (Shonda) Wise Jr. of Princess Anne, MD; two sisters, Coretta (Everett Sr.) Marshall of Evans, GA, and Tammie Fletcher of Salisbury, MD; one uncle, Linwood (Mary) Bonneville of Princeton, NC; two aunts, Barbara (Charles) Byrd of Pocomoke City, MD, and Marilyn (Andre) Jones of Hebron, MD; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will hold his memory close to their hearts.
Gary's life may be summed up in scripture: He fought the good fight, he finished his course, and above all, he kept the faith.