Robert T. Wiley

Robert Thornton “Bob” Wiley, 77, of Sedalia, passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Bothwell Regional Health Center surrounded by his family.

He was born February 21, 1948, in Sedalia, the only child of James Fowler Wiley and Maurine (Thornton) Wiley.

On August 16, 1969, at Broadway Presbyterian Church, he married Betsy Whittier. They were blessed with two daughters, Kristin and Tricia.

Bob was a 1966 graduate of Northwest High School. He earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and industrial technology from Central Missouri State College, a master’s in business administration from Webster University, and a master’s in human resource management from Pepperdine University.

He served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1991, retiring as a Major. His primary work was in explosive ordnance disposal. After his military service, he worked in private contracting in quality control.

Bob was a longtime member of Broadway Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder for many years. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association, Sons of the American Revolution, National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association, American Legion, and 40 & 8 Voiture 333.

He enjoyed researching family history, working and mowing on his hobby farm, reading, church activities, cooking, and visiting with friends.

Bob faced many health challenges with determination and grit. He was larger than life and will be remembered for his generosity and dedication to his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and PaPa.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Betsy, of the home; two daughters, Kristin E. Wiley Thomas (Trent) of Bellingham, WA, and Tricia M. Wiley Taylor (Scott) of Springfield, MO; five grandchildren, Lauren Thomas Sitler (Kale), Kelsey Myers (Justin), Collin Wiley Thomas, Luke Taylor, and Reagan Taylor; and two great-grandsons, his pride and joy, Noah Sitler and Charlie Myers.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Broadway Presbyterian Church, where funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Rev. Rob Hughes will officiate. Honors will be rendered by the Sons of the American Revolution and the 40 & 8.

Burial will follow in High Point Cemetery near Hughesville, with full military honors by the United States Army.

Casket bearers will be Trent Thomas, Scott Taylor, Collin Thomas, Luke Taylor, Kale Sitler, and Justin Myers. Jim Callis will serve as an honorary bearer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Broadway Presbyterian Church, Sons of the American Revolution, or 40 & 8 Voiture 333.

Arrangements are under the care of Heckart Funeral Home.