Gary Allen Yardley

Gary Allen Yardley obituary, Visalia, CA

Gary Allen Yardley

Gary Yardley Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Smith Family Chapel on Dec. 30, 2025.
Gary Alan Yardley was born on September 27, 1956, in Maricopa County, Arizona, to Harold and Roberta Yardley. He passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, at Kaweah Delta Hospital in Visalia, California, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary was the youngest child in his family and grew up alongside his three older sisters: Terry, Marcella, and Charlene. As the baby of the family, he carried that role with a strong personality, humor, and determination that stayed with him throughout his life.

On April 21, 1979, Gary married the love of his life, Nadine Fenwick. They shared over 46 years of marriage, standing side by side through life's challenges and joys until his passing. Together they raised three children whom Gary was deeply proud of: his oldest daughter, Christina Carranza; his middle son, Dustin Yardley; and his youngest son, Sean Yardley.

Gary dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving his country. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from November 19, 1974, to November 21, 1978, followed by service in the USMC Reserves until November 21, 1980. He then continued his military career with the Army National Guard, serving from November 21, 1980, until June 1, 1999. His service included involvement during the Vietnam War era, the Los Angeles riots of 1992, along with other deployments for national disasters across the country. Gary's commitment to duty and country was a defining part of who he was.

After his military service, Gary worked as a welder for Waterman's in Exeter, California, and also spent time as a mechanic and truck driver. He was known as a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family and doing his job well.

In his free time, Gary enjoyed fishing, motorcycles, and competitive g

A graveside service will be held for Gary on Friday, January 23rd at 10:00 A.M. at the Exeter Cemetery, 719 E. Marinette Ave., Exeter with Military Honors

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Allen Yardley, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Gary Yardley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

1 Entry

Phillip Parton

January 8, 2026

First my condolences to the Yardley family . I met Sgt. Yardley in Alpha Co. served with him in many state missions, from freeze relief to the Northridge earthquakes, Mendocino fires, to our readiness training at Ft. Irwin Ca. For deployment to Iraq, which for us1/52nd. Battalion the war ended prior to our deployment. Sgt. Yardley was known for a good laugh when things didn´t go our way. Now he´s been called to one last mission by our lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Proud to have served with you Gary, thank´s for the laughs & memories see ya after formation. Specialist Phillip Parton

Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results

Smith Family Chapel

505 East Pine Street, Exeter, CA 93221

Make a Donation
in Gary Yardley's name

How to support Gary's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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 more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
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
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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
Ways to honor Gary Yardley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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

Sign Gary Yardley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?