Laney Prewitt

Gary Lane "Laney" Prewitt
February 16, 1969 – August 15, 2025
Gary Lane "Laney" Prewitt, 56, of Wendell, North Carolina, passed away on August 15, 2025, surrounded by the unwavering love of his family after a life defined by resilience and courage.
For more than 30 years, Laney endured wrongful imprisonment for a crime he did not commit. Though injustice stole decades, it never broke his spirit. Nine months ago, he finally returned home. In that short time, he didn't just live-he lived hard. He embraced freedom with open arms, packed a lifetime into months, and filled every day with laughter, family dinners, hugs, and the simple joys he had been denied for so long. He rode roller coasters with his kids and grandkids, pedaled bikes with the wind on his face, and soaked in every moment of the freedom he had fought for.
At the heart of his life were his children, Whitney Hackney and Colby Prewitt. Together, they stood as his greatest pride and comfort-Whitney alongside her husband Jesse and their children Daelyn, Jaxon, and Emma, and Colby with his daughter Mayzi. They gave him what he longed for most: unconditional love, belonging, and pride in being a father and grandfather.
He is also survived by his lifelong supporter, mother of his children and friend Shelley Watkins, who stood beside him through the years; his loyal dog Dexter, who never left his side; his sister Melissa Whitcomb and her husband Chad, and their children Erin Martin and Kaley Gettys who were always there and supported him.
Though his years were marked by injustice, his story ends with dignity, family, and freedom. The nine months he spent home with those he loved were not just the happiest, but the fullest of his life-a reminder that even after decades of loss, love can redeem and restore.
Free at last.
Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell. www.stricklandfuneral.com