Obituary for Jeff Warren Wiley

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Jeff Warren Wiley, age 83, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, in Bakersfield, California.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Donna Wiley, and their four daughters: Pamela Valdez (Gilbert Valdez), Dee Dee Strong, Kimberly Smith (Bret Smith), and Kara Flynn (Jared Flynn). Jeff leaves behind 10 grandchildren — Sarah Fultin], Natalie Valdez, Brandi Strong, Breanna Montoya, Donnie Strong, Zane Smith, Cole Smith, Audrey Flynn, Ainsley Flynn, and Annabelle Flynn — as well as eight great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Additionally, he is survived by his sisters, Faye Stebbens, Katie Havens, and Mary Hammack.

Jeff was born on April 25, 1942, in Spadra, Arkansas, to Jeff & Ella Wiley. In 1951, his family moved west to San Francisco, California, eventually settling in Los Banos. Jeff graduated from Los Banos High School, where he met his beloved Donna Woods at a football game — a chance meeting that turned into a lifetime of love. They were married on February 10, 1961.

Jeff proudly served his country by joining the Army National Guard in 1960-1963 and later served in the 101st Airborne Division, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment.

Jeff and Donna began raising their family in Ventura, California, surrounded by a close-knit circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Eventually, they made Bakersfield their home. Jeff retired from Chevron after 30 years after a dedicated career and continued working with Walmart, where he was regularly recognized for his perfect driving record and unwavering dependability.

He especially loved his time as a truck driver, seeing America firsthand and appreciating the beauty of the country he loved so deeply. Traveling the open road gave him countless stories and memories that he cherished throughout his life.

After retiring for good in 2011 Jeff enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: spending time with family and friends, reading, and lovingly tending to his roses.

Jeff will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and warm spirit. He never met a stranger, always willing to share whatever he had with those in need. He made it a point to thank every military service member he encountered, proudly telling them about his two grandchildren who served in the Navy. His quick wit and good-natured teasing — brought laughter to all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother J.B. Wiley & Margaret Sliger.

Jeff’s enduring advice to his loved ones was: "Do your best. Be your best. And always be true to yourself." These words are a reflection of the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.

A memorial service will be held on May 9th, GreenLawn Morturary In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hoffman Hospice.