Gary Wayne Stiles
1951—2023

Gary Wayne Stiles, 72, of Inez, passed away at Highlands Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg in the early morning hours of Nov. 30, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He was born July 17, 1951, in Scioto Furnace, Ohio, to the late Ollie “Dan” Stiles and Betty Jean (Cole) Stiles.

He is preceded in death by his brothers, Michael Ray (Wilma) Stiles and Ronald “Ronnie” Stiles, and his niece and nephew, Leslie Michael Stiles and Shelly Renea Stiles.

Gary served in the Army from July 28, 1971 to July 12, 1974, as a tank commander and sergeant. After leaving the Army, he continued his service in the Reserves.

For 40-plus years, he worked as a tipple operator for Wolf Creek Collieries and later at Booth Energy, where he was affectionately known as “Killer” and could be found leaving his “signature” mark on every train car. He will be remembered by many for his boisterous laugh, big bear hugs, and love for UK ball, trains and music.

Gary is survived by his wife, Johnna Sue Stiles; daughters, Lisa Marie (Rexford) Horton and Stephanie Danielle (Eric) May; granddaughters, Kaitlyn Williamson, Allison Isaac, Kristen Isaac, Chelsea Nicole (Calib) Ball, Carrigan Reann Horton; great-granddaughter, Anistyn Skye Ball; and great-niece, Abby Stiles. He is also survived by two lifelong friends, Donnie Queen and Richard “Ritchie” Burton, who he thought of as brothers, as well as a host of other loving family members and friends.

Funeral services were conducted Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, at Crum Funeral Home, Inez, with Mike Crum officiating. Burial services followed at Riverview Memorial Gardens in Lawrence County, with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez.