Johnny Earl Wiley Sr.

Johnny Earl Wiley Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness while under the compassionate care of Baton Rouge General Hospital. Born on December 1, 1965, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Johnny's life was a testament to love, resilience, and warmth. Johnny was the cherished son of Alex and Annie Mae Markham and Archie and Mary Wiley, who preceded him in death, along with his dear sister, Lina Wiley. He was surrounded by the love of his surviving family, including his three children: Johnny Earl Wiley Jr. and his wife Callie, Shannon A. Wiley, and Marissa A. Wiley. He also leaves behind his former wife and dear friend, Shelia W. Gilbert Ph.D., whose enduring friendship and partnership in parenting brought comfort to his life. Johnny was a proud and loving grandfather to Davira Townsend, DMeria Townsend, David Townsend, Angel Rodrigue, and Jordan. His siblings, Dr. Johnetta D. Wiley, Tina Dale, and Alfred Price, along with his extended family, including Karen Black (Andre T. Sr.) Greenup, and Kennath Aric (Stephanie) Black, remember him with deep affection. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends who became family. Johnny's journey began in Greenwood, Mississippi, where he graduated from Amanda Elzy High School in 1983. His professional life included meaningful roles at Staple-Cotton, Irvin Automotive, the Leflore County Juvenile Detention Center, and finally, with the Department of Corrections in Louisiana, before he became disabled. A man of many passions, Johnny was an avid fisherman who found peace and joy in the simple pleasure of casting a line. He cherished the time spent with family and friends, playing spades and dominoes and delighting in cooking on the grill. Known for his friendly and outgoing nature, Johnny could strike up a conversation with anyone, and his talent as a singer and soloist brought joy to many. A service to honor and celebrate Johnny's life will be held on August 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Turner Chapel AME Church, located at 717 Walthall Street, Greenwood, Mississippi 38930. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice, in memory of Johnny's generous spirit. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and entire staff of Baton Rouge General Hospital. Your compassion, kindness, and care provided comfort during such an important and difficult time. Your dedication and professionalism will always be remembered with deep appreciation, and your kindness remains in our hearts. Johnny Earl Wiley Sr.'s legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate to know him. His spirit lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, and he will be dearly missed.