Gary Lee Wise

1938 - 2022

ODESSA - Gary Lee Wise, 84, of Odessa, TX, passed away on Wednesday July 6, 2022. Gary was born to Max and Yvonne Wise in Brookesmith, TX on June 10, 1938. He graduated from Brookesmith High School in 1956 and attended Texas Tech University. Although he played sports in high school, a recently discovered transcript revealed he received a D in handball, which could be the result of effort, attendance or possibly both. Later, he moved to New Mexico where he met his wife of 61 years Joy Irby Wise. The couple moved to Odessa in 1970 with 4 children.

From a young age, Gary had a passion for speed, which he channeled into a lifelong hobby of drag racing and later piloted his own plane. Gary also farmed and ranched. He excelled at plowing in his air-conditioned International Harvester tractor, while most of the actual labor was executed by his foreman, known as his wife Joy.

Gary worked in the Oil & Gas Industry for over 50 years and was widely known and appreciated throughout the industry. He created numerous businesses while building strong relationships and lasting friendships throughout the region. Professionally, Gary was known as a hard worker in the industry and was willing to support other in their endeavors.

Gary's quick wit will be missed, but he will be remembered as a husband, brother, father, grandfather, and a friend. He worked hard and played hard doing the things he loved.

Gary is survived by his wife Joy Wise, of the home, sister Kay Vogel and husband Jody of Burleson, TX, daughter Shannon and husband Tom Duncan of Hobbs, NM, daughter Lechell and husband Steve Currin of McKinney, TX, daughter Tonna and husband Richard Kenedi of McKinney TX. He has 8 grandchildren: Tanner Duncan and wife Eden, Cole Duncan and wife Madeline, Carlie Shafroth and husband Will, Taryn Kenedi, Kalie Currin, Kolby Wise, Grayson Kenedi, and Mason Currin. Gary also has 3 great grandsons, and the family is expecting the fourth. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his son Kiley Wise and brothers Ray and Randy Wise.

Gary's ashes will be laid to rest at a private family cemetery in New Mexico.