Gary Donley Obituary: Gary L. Donley, aged 86, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2024, at Village Manor nursing home after a brief illness.
He was born on July 28, 1937, in Winfield, Kansas, to Carrol Reece Donley and Evelene Dorothy (McGee) Donley. Gary spent his formative years in Oxford, Kansas, where he contributed to his family’s farm.
On June 15, 1957, Gary married Virginia (Nicholson) Donley at the Methodist Church in Oxford, KS. Together, they embarked on a journey that led them to Abilene, Kansas, where Gary dedicated himself to a distinguished banking career spanning from 1967 to 1997. A devout member of the First United Methodist Church in Abilene, Gary actively participated in the choir and served as Acting Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
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Known fondly as “Crunch,” Gary was passionate about golfing and took immense pride in supporting his children and grandchildren in their athletic pursuits over the years. He also made significant contributions to the business community, serving as the past president of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce and maintaining memberships in the Abilene Elks Club, the Masonic Lodge, and the Isis Shrine clown unit.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Donley, and their children: Soncia Schmitt (Steven) of Olathe, KS, Talbot Donley (Tammy) of Broken Arrow, OK, and Clay Donley (Jana) of Salina, KS. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren, as well as his brother-in-law Ed Sauzek of Ponca City, OK, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service to honor Gary’s life will be held at Martin Becker Carlson Funeral Home on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 2-4 pm. Contributions in his memory may be made to Village Manor or Hospice of Dickinson County. Condolences and memorials can be sent to Martin Becker Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, KS 67410.