George Derek “Pops” Coley died peacefully on Sunday, July 1, 2018 in Ocean Shores, WA, at the age of 86.



He is survived by his loving wife of almost 66 years, Dorothy Coley; his son George C. Coley (Teresa); daughter Kimberly Coley; grandchildren Mindy Simmons (Joe), Shelby White (Michael), George N. Coley, and Tacy Coley; great grandchildren Rylie Simmons, Morgan Simmons, and Chase White; 1 sister; and many extended family members including brother in laws, sister in laws, nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.


A longtime resident of Olympia, WA, George was born on March 7, 1932 in Vancouver, WA and graduated from Ridgefield High School in 1950. He enlisted in the United States Air Force shortly after high school, and married his high school sweetheart on August 9, 1952. During his 41 years of military and civil service as a flight engineer, George served his country in 4 wars, beginning his career training on the B29 Bomber, flying on the C119 “Flying Boxcar,” and finishing his career on the C141 Starlifter. He served as an Air Force Reserve technician, continued several years in the active reserves, and worked in civil service. A highlight of his career included shuttling the armored car for President Ronald Regan in his C141. George retired from the 97th airlift squadron of the Air Force Reserves out of McChord Air Force Base as a Chief Master Sergeant.

For many years, you could find George on his boat Twilight serving in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. George loved to spend time with his family, building countless memories together hunting, fishing, boating, and camping. George served faithfully in his church, and loved to help anyone and everyone in need.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at 1:00pm at Evergreen Christian Community, 1000 Black Lake Blvd SW Olympia, WA 98502. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in George’s name to Maytown Assembly of God, 2920 Tierney Street SW Olympia, WA 98512.