Gary Wayne Kiser

Gary Wayne Kiser went home to be with the Lord on January 18, 2024 at Ascension Health St. Vincent’s Hospital. He was the loving husband of Patricia Byrel (Close) Kiser. They shared 51 years of marriage together. 

He was born in Evansville, IN, and was the son of the late Vernon and Dovie Kiser.  He was a graduate of Decatur Central High School, and he retired from the US Postal Service after 37 years of service as a clerk. Gary was a longtime resident of Speedway and a member of Open Door Baptist Church. 

Gary was an accomplished and talented musician, songwriter, and artist. His music ministry spanned the course of 50 years. Even though he was born with a hearing impairment that left him deaf in one ear, his good ear had an uncanny musical memory and ability. Gary was self-taught and learned to play the guitar at a young age. Later, he learned to play the mandolin, dulcimer, and harmonica. Through his music career, Gary blessed local audiences, recorded multiple albums, and played in various bands and organizations like the Central Indiana Folk Music and Mountain Dulcimer Society. He was a past president of the society and performed at the annual Eagle Creek Folk Festival for 35 years. His most cherished memories; however, were playing the mandolin and singing gospel music alongside his dad, Vernon. In addition to music, he enjoyed painting, fishing, and woodworking. Gary was a man of deep faith. He gave his life to Christ at the age of 13 at a Billy Graham Crusade. He often spoke of a sweet heavenly reunion that he knew awaited him when the Lord would call him home. His trust and faith in Jesus carried him through the last difficult months of declining health as he battled congestive heart and kidney failure. 

Gary was a devoted husband, adoring father, and proud grandpa to his five grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Patricia (Close) Kiser, who faithfully cared for him until he drew his last breath. His daughters were Karla (and husband Mike) Jarrett, Laura (and husband Aric) Compliment, and Lynette (and husband Jonathan) Baldwin. Gary was “Poppy” to his grandchildren Jaden Jarrett, Lucinda Jarrett, Weston Jarrett, Carter Baldwin, and Shelby Baldwin. 

The visitation for friends and family will be held at Open Door Baptist Church at 5360 W. 16th Street, Speedway, IN 46224 on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Visitation will be from noon - 2 pm, and the funeral will immediately follow at 2 pm.  Gary will be laid to rest at Floral Park Cemetery.