Gary Wayne Meece

Gary Wayne Meece, 77, of Sheridan, WY passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.  

Gary was born on July 11, 1948, in Galesburg, IL to Virgil Max Meece and LaWanda Ione Meece (Buck). He was the oldest of four boys. Gary lived a full and meaningful life marked by laughter, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Gary entered in February 1969 and proudly served in the U.S. Army as part of the 82^nd Airborne Infantry. Stationed at Fort Bragg, he served as both a medic and paratrooper. His military service was a defining chapter of his life, one he carried with pride, and he was honorably discharged in 1971.

Following his service, Gary married his hometown sweetheart, Mary Anne. Together, they made their home in Sheridan, WY, a place where Gary fell in love with its rugged mountains and enduring sense of community. There, they raised their two children, daughter Ami, and son Justin.

Gary built a long and dedicated career as a conductor with BNSF where he worked for more than thirty years. He was also a proud member of the United Transportation Union, valuing the camaraderie and shared purpose it provided throughout his career.

Gary had a quick wit, a generous heart and a knack for making everyone laugh. He enjoyed tinkering-fixing and fiddling with tractors, trucks, backhoes, lawn mowers, motor scooters and even locomotives. He could often be found at auctions, happily buying things (many he didn’t necessarily need, if you asked Mary Anne), always with an eye for possibility and a story to tell.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by two brothers, Steven L. Meece and Martin L. Meece, and sister-in-law Brenda Lee Meece. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Anne Meece; one son Justin Meece of Sheridan, WY; one daughter Ami (Sam) Puuri of Sheridan, WY; one brother David Meece of Gillette, WY; sister-in-law Brenda Gail Meece, and Darlene Meece. Three grandchildren; Kaitlin Puuri, Allison Puuri, Mercedez Meece, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss him.

A Celebration of Life is at 10:30 AM., Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Ignite Wesleyan Church with Military Honors. A reception will follow the service. 

Gary’s legacy of laughter, loyalty and love will be carried on by those who knew and loved him. Contributions in his memory may be made to Hospice of the Big Horns, P.O. Box 391, Sheridan, WY, 82801 or the donor’s choice.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported and cared for Gary. Online condolences may be made to www.sheridanfuneral.com. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.