John Charles Wiley

1946 - 2022

John Charles Wiley, 75, of Pottsville, a veteran of the Vietnam War, passed away peacefully Monday, March 14, surrounded by family at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown.

Born Aug. 15, 1946, the only son of the late John and Catherine Wiley, he grew up in the beautiful hills of the Shenandoah Valley.

After attending Shenandoah Catholic High School, he enlisted in the Air Force, serving in California, Vietnam and Dover AFB from 1966 to 1972. He spent a pretty penny on writing love letters to the love of his life, Mary Ellen Murphy, who finally said Yes after three proposals.

He is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, with whom he shared 53 years of bonded marriage, Mary Ellen Wiley. They have three children along with three daughters-in-law, John and Barbara Wiley, Kristine and Dani Wiley and Michael and his fiancée, Tina. He was a proud poppy who loved his eight grandchildren, Courtney, Nicholas, Kyle, Tabitha, Ariel, Avery, Megan and Tyler. He was over the moon to be a great-grandpop to Carter and Greyson, who loved to hug their pop-pop. He is also survived by his cousin, Mary Short, and by his loving dogs.

John was a proud Air Force veteran and IndyCar, NASCAR and Steelers fans. You could find him on any given Sunday with the remote in his hand in front of the TV. As a lasting gift after his death, John donated his organs as a symbol of one's selfless decision to give to others that will never be forgotten.

A memorial service to honor his life and military service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 27, at Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home Inc., Frackville. Friends are invited to his visitation from noon until the time of service Sunday at the funeral home. He was guided home by a little Penny. Sign the guest book, leave personal condolences and for further information, please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com. Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.