Gary Dean Tiner

Wilson - Celebration of life services for Gary Dean Tiner, 73, of Wilson, are scheduled for 11:00 A.M., Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Keller cemetery, North of Wilson, with Zane Gray and Gary’s family officiating. Services are under the direction and care of Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Wilson.

Gary Dean Tiner, born on January 21, 1952, in Wilson, Oklahoma, to the late Mr. Thurl Leo “T.L.” Tiner and Mrs. Willie Mae “Bill” (Fore) Tiner. He departed this life Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Healdton, leaving behind a legacy of love and commitment to family, education, and agriculture.

Raised in Wilson, Gary was a proud graduate of Wilson High School, where he completed his studies in 1970. His educational journey continued at Oklahoma State University (OSU), where he graduated in 1974 with a degree in Agriculture Education, achieving a commendable rank as the second highest in his class. It was during these formative years that Gary's character and values were shaped, which would guide him throughout his life. On August 12,1972, Gary married the love of his life, Carolyn Emberling, at the Bethel Baptist Church in Healdton, a sacred place that held special meaning for him, as he had given his life to Christ there in his senior year of high school. Their love story began in the eighth grade, blossoming into a deep bond as they navigated life together, a testament to their unwavering partnership. Following graduation from college, the couple returned to the area north of Wilson, where they fulfilled their dream of owning Dike Ranch. Gary was deeply involved in the operation of the ranch alongside his father at the Circle T Ranch, all while dedicating 40 years of service at Uniroyal/Michelin. His passion for farming and ranching was evident in all he did. Outside of his professional endeavors, Gary found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it was the thrill of Thunder basketball games, enjoying anything related to OSU, or the immense satisfaction gained from crafting swings and birdhouses with his beloved grandchildren. His legacy is embedded in the activities and laughter shared with family, enriching their lives with memories that will last forever.

Preceding him in death are his parents; brother-in-law, Mike Emberling and his wife Mary Emberling.

Survivors include his wife Carolyn Tiner of the home; daughter, Amy Smith and husband Zack; son, Corey D. Tiner and wife Lesley; grandchildren, Landon, Rylee, Rebekah, Zaya, and Amaylee; nieces, Mika Tinline and husband Mike, Michelle Emberling, Maci Tripp and husband Zach; numerous other family and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Zach Smith, Mike Tinline, Billy Inselman, Matt Dickinson, Mike Ayers, Lesley Hoedebeck, Billy Arbuckle, and Danny Nall.

Honorary bearers are Zach Tripp, Neal Hill, Stan Harris, Curt Hippard, and the Wilson High School Class of 1970.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.