Wayne Gailey Remembrance

[Tom Alexander]

I apologize for the tardy remembrance for my father-in-law, Wayne Gailey. I did not realize that retired life could be so time consuming. This past Thursday, August 14th, was the 47th anniversary of the passing of Wayne Owen Gailey. Wayne was born in Riverside, CA in 1938, grew up in Corona, CA, lived in Albuquerque, NM most of his adult life, and left this world suddenly in Reno, NV. Wayne started his career in southern California and played in many places around the world. His love and knowledge of the steel guitar was often generously passed on to others who were beginning their own steel guitar journeys. Wayne’s life and work touched many in the country music and steel guitar communities. Wayne was a musician, an innovator, a husband, a father, a brother, and a son. He remains forever in our hearts. We love you Wayne (Dad)!

Daughters Patty and Melissa and their families, son Mark and his family, sister Marlene and her family, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

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[Dennis Detweiler]

I'll never forget listening to Wayne and talking with him at Navaho Hogan in Colorado Springs early 1971. I was stationed at Ft Carson and patronized the Hogan whenever possible. He was playing with Kenny Vernon at that time. Great guy and exceptional steel player.
Dennis Detweiler

[George Duncan Sypert]

I talk with Kenny Vernon of a regular basis. Most of our conversation is in reference to what a great steel guitar player and great guy Wayne was. I spent every available minute I could to enjoying Wayne play pedal steel. The very first words he ever said to me was "it's got ten" as he kept on walking by. It was early 1967. Just a bit of info, at the time Wayne played a Fender 1000, had 10 strings with the two chromatic behind the 8th string and the F# & D# notes reversed.

Miss him more than I can say.

George