LCDR Walter Gilbert (Gil) Wetmore USN Retired, age 78, of Independence, VA, died June 29, 2022, at the VA hospital in Salem, VA. He was born in Wichita Falls, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Loyce; father, Roland; his brother, Larry; and sister-in-law Daisy, father-in-law Jack Blevins, and brother-in-law Donald Cornett.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shelby Wetmore, of the home.

Daughters:         Deborah Mallinson and Keith of Galax, VA.

Beverly Millard and Tim of Bristol, TN.

Sons:                  Larry Wetmore of San Diego, CA.

Greg Wetmore of Hubbardston, MI.

Grandchildren:  Richard, Tabitha, Melody, Jonathan, Michaela, Samantha, Ashley, Grace, Zach, and Brant.

Mother-in-law: Dorothy Blevins

Sister-in-law:  Linda Cornett

Brother-in-law: Jason Blevins

Special Nephew: Troy Paisley and wife, Kim and son, Justin.

He was proud of his family; 4 children, 10 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.

Gil served his country in both the Army and Navy for a combined 26 years. During that time, he visited over 100 countries.

He was an avid reader his whole life and was always studying. He received an Associate degree from Pensacola Junior College and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Liberty University, graduating at age 74, Magna Cum Laude.

Gil was known for his love of God, Family, and Country. He had an infectious smile and laugh, a quick intelligent wit, loved music, telling stories, was respectful, and always kind. He was always a leader in the Church, military, and life.

He had a wide variety of interests: Bible Study, Genealogy, birds, crocheting, sports, travel, and people. Gill never met a stranger.

He was a member of Mountain View Baptist Church and served faithfully until his health failed. During his military career, he always joined and served in a local church. He was a member of the Gideon's and the VFW.

He was greatly loved by all who knew him and will be sorely missed. He was a true southern gentleman—a man of great reputation and strength.

He is also survived by his Goddaughter, Lauren Sawyers; special friends: Martha Brewer, Brenda Wetmore, Bufford Wilson, Beverly and Carl Thompson, and many, many others.

A celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Mt. View Baptist Church with Rev. David Osborne and Rev. Rick Young officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 until the hour of service.  Inurnment will follow in the Mt. View Church Cemetery with military rites offered by Grayson County VFW Post #7726 and the US Navy.

Donations may be made to:        Mountain View Baptist Church or the Gideon's.

The family is being served by Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA.