Gary Don Whitely

Gary Don Whitely, 80, of Cherokee passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on August 8, 2026. He was born to Clyde and Opal Whitely on June 30,1946 in Alva, Oklahoma.

Gary Don left high school before graduating to enlist in the United States Army. After serving his country Gary returned to Alva, where he met the love of his life Jessie Elaine Bailey. They were united in marriage on July 13, 1970 in Miami, Oklahoma. They welcomed one son, Gary Dean, in 1975. Through out their years together Gary and Elaine had many businesses including; G&G Plumbing and the Katy Inn Hotel. Gary also served many years on the Cherokee Fire Department.

Gary enjoyed his morning coffee with the guys, farming, dancing, spending time with family, and could never pass up a "bargain".

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years, Elaine, as well as seven brothers and seven sisters.

He is survived by his son, Gary Dean Whitely and wife, Jamie of Cherokee, Oklahoma; sister, Arlene (Whitely) Hada of Alva, Oklahoma; nine grandchildren, Ty Whitely, Haileigh Whitely, Kaleb Whitely, and Shyla Hudson all of Cherokee, Oklahoma, Haley Wade of Alva, Oklahoma, Jacob and Ashley Locke of Hooker, Oklahoma, Josie and Halea Cueto of Laverne, Oklahoma as well as eight great-grandchildren; Carly Frost, Rhett, Raeleigh and baby Whitely all of Cherokee, Oklahoma, Ariel, Oakley, Emmery, and Chase Locke, all of Hooker, Oklahoma.

Services for Gary are pending.

Memorial donations may be made to the Cherokee Fire Department through the funeral home.