Wayne Wise II

John Wayne Wise, II, 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, adventure, and unwavering love for his family and friends.

Born on September 24, 1942, Wayne was born with a passion for movement and adventure. From his very early years, he enjoyed running, climbing, bikes, trains, cars, rollercoasters, and anything that would GO! He learned to be an overcomer on his 9th birthday when the polio epidemic forever changed his life, but not without a battle. That same adventurous and determined spirit championed him to overcome living in an iron lung, years of surgeries and hospital stays, body casts, learning and re-learning to walk, ride bikes, and to eventually race cars and motorcycles with enthusiasm and success. Throughout life, he faced challenges with courage and determination. Those who knew him best will forever remember his gentle and kind spirit, a keen sense of humor and those sparkling baby blues that could light up any room.

Wayne had a deep love of life and embraced every opportunity for new experiences, whether through fishing, camping and travel, or simply sharing a cold beer and good stories with just about anyone. He found great joy in exploring the world, but his greatest adventures were always the moments spent with family and friends.

Well-known and respected in the car business, Wayne proudly worked alongside his father in the family enterprise, building not only a successful career but also lasting relationships within Tarrant County, the state and beyond. His integrity, warmth, and genuine care for others earned him the admiration and loyalty of all he encountered. Later in life, he embarked on a second career in the appliance parts world, working side by side with his best friend and wife, Gari. Together, they formed a remarkable partnership built on shared purpose, mutual respect, and deep love for one another.

Above all, Wayne was devoted to his family and community. He is survived by his loving wife, Gari Perry Wise; his son, John Wise, III (Trey) and partner, Darrin Skinner; his daughter, Angela Wise Rothstein and husband, Kevin Rothstein; and his stepson, Michael Perry. He was a proud grandfather to Blythe Wise, Timothy Wright and wife, Amanda, Jeremy O'Neill and wife, Skylar, and Richard Perry. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Linda Wise and Dee Zapatka, eight great grandchildren, one great, great grandchild and a wealth of precious friends. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, John Wise and Nadine Baker Wise; his brother, Glenn Wise; his brother-in-law, Stanley Zapatka and his grandson, Mathew Perry.

Wayne's life was defined not only by the business and relationships he built or the miles he traveled, but by the kindness he showed, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. His adventurous heart, warm smile, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered. His legacy lives on in the stories told, the lessons taught, and the love that continues through the family and community he cherished so dearly.

The family is grateful for donations in lieu of flowers to the Granbury Opera Guild or charity of choice.

Arrangements under the care of Wiley Funeral Home, Granbury, Texas.