Gary Wayne Worley, 69, a man of profound love and intelligence, whose passion for life was as abundant as the gardens he tended, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2023, at his home in Carthage, Missouri. Gary was born on November 6, 1954, in Olathe, Kansas, the son of the late George David Worley and Lillie Kathrine (Oliver) Worley. Gary’s journey was one marked by compassion, dedication, and a remarkable aptitude for nurturing growth, both in plants and in the hearts of those he knew.
Gary’s early life in Grandview, Missouri, was filled with the joys of learning and discovery. A proud 1973 graduate of Grandview High School, he then moved to Joplin, Missouri, in 1976. He furthered his education by attending Missouri Southern State University and Crowder College, where he immersed himself in horticulture classes. His love for the natural world and his green thumb were evident in the lush gardens he cultivated and the knowledge he eagerly shared with others. He then met the love of his life, Dennis Manley, and together they shared a wonderful life full of everlasting memories for 47 years, marrying on July 8, 2016, in Miami, Oklahoma.
Gary dedicated over a decade of service to Sam’s Club in Joplin, where his versatility and dedication saw him excel in various roles. Gary’s professional life was characterized by his caring nature as he also served as a patient care technician at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, until his retirement. His colleagues and patients knew him as a gentle and giving soul who brought comfort and kindness to those in need.
Upon his retirement, Gary continued to invest his time in the things he loved most. As a master gardener, he transformed his surroundings into spaces of beauty and serenity. Friends, family, and neighbors often marveled at his ability to coax vibrant blossoms and verdant foliage from even the most stubborn of soils. His gardens were not just a hobby but a sanctuary for all who needed a moment of peace.
He is survived by his devoted husband, Dennis Manley of Carthage; his sisters, Glayda O’neal of Kansas City, Missouri, Nancy Worley of Joplin, Missouri, and Wanda Sue Phillips (husband Tommy) of Collins, Missouri; his brother-in-law, Tom Thompson, Joplin, Missouri; his sister-in-law, Linda Worley, Omaha, Nebraska; numerous nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews; and a cherished circle of extended family and friends.
He was also preceded in death by his brother, George “Butch” Worley; two sisters, Georgia Jean Thompson and Kathrine Worley; and his brother-in-law, Burt O’neal.
Graveside funeral services will be held 11:30 am, Thursday, January 4, 2024, at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery, Joplin, Missouri. The family will receive friends before the service from 10 am – 11 am, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage, Missouri. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
