Wiley Wroten

Wiley Harold Wroten, Jr., age 77, of Sulphur Springs, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home on June 17, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. Wiley courageously battled Alzheimer’s Disease with incredible strength and grace since his diagnosis in June 2022. Alzheimer’s robbed him of many of his faculties, but it never took his ability to laugh and find joy in the simplest things.

Wiley was born on July 3, 1947, in Abilene, Texas, to Wiley Harold “Buddy” Wroten and Ora Jo Walker. He graduated from Abilene Cooper High School in 1965 and joined the Navy Reserve. Wiley was drafted in 1969 and proudly served our country during the Vietnam War as a riverboat seaman in the U.S. Navy. After completing his service, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas in 1972. Wiley had an entrepreneurial spirit and spent the next 50 years embracing various business opportunities. He owned multiple auto parts stores, operated an oil and gas company, and even dabbled in horse racing. For the last 30 years of his life, Wiley owned and operated loan companies in Sulphur Springs and Tyler, Texas, where he found tremendous joy in being a part of the community. Affectionately known to many as “Mr. Wiley,” he was loved by all who knew him. When Wiley was not working in the office, he could be found on one of his farms. This was where he felt most at home. He loved being outdoors, checking his herd, and tending to his land. The only thing Wiley loved more than his farms and his businesses was his family. He dedicated his life to them, always seeking to ensure they knew the depth of his love and support. He loved to travel and together they made a lifetime of memories that his family will forever cherish.

Wiley is survived by his two loving daughters, Jennifer Wroten Clarke of Sulphur Springs, and Molly Wroten Humber (Scott) of Concord, Massachusetts. He leaves behind seven grandchildren he adored: Matthew Clarke, Kylie Clarke, Baylor Clarke, Griffin Clarke, Caroline Humber, Madelyn Humber, and Austin Humber. He is survived by family friend, Debra Hukill of Sulphur Springs. He also leaves behind his sister, Barbara Wroten of Sulphur Springs, who remained his best friend and caregiver until his death. Wiley was preceded in death by his father, his mother, and Emily Stallard Wroten.

Family and friends are kindly invited to honor Wiley’s life at 11:00 a.m. on July 8, 2025 at Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home in Sulphur Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.