Columbus, OH — George C. Tackley, 64, of Syracuse, N.Y., died July 21, 2024, peacefully and with dignity after fighting a courageous two-year battle with cancer, with his fiancée Wendy Saulsbury Storrier by his side.
Mr. Tackley was born Aug. 13, 1959, to Clarence and Rose.
Along this journey, George and Wendy developed so many new and special friendships with the amazing, kind, and caring nurses and doctors who provided exceptional care, compassion, and guidance during such a difficult time. He always took the time to thank each one for their selfless service.
Mr. Tackley always seemed to build a family of friends, whether it be his old gang from the Hotel Syracuse, Aladdin Transportation, or the racing community. He had been in the transportation business for over 30 years. Together he and Wendy owned and operated Aladdin Transportation. He credited the success of Aladdin to his hard-working crew of drivers who have become family to him. He respected each person who came to work for him and always knew he could count on them to be the best drivers in the business. Over the years, he made many dear friends in this industry.
Mr. Tackley was an avid horseman. His true passion in life were his dogs, his horses, and harness racing. He learned everything he knew about racing from the best in the business. He was so thankful for the racing community, many who ultimately became part of his family. He always had a story to tell. He and Wendy ventured to many tracks across the Northeast where they celebrated Team Tackley’s countless wins. He introduced Wendy to harness racing, and her love for it was instant. Together they became regulars at the tracks and were affectionately known as the George and Wendy show.
They were always up for an adventure. They loved watching the races and being together by the ocean in Pompano Beach, Fla. They often took spontaneous six-hour drives to Ohio for their dear friend, Andy Gardner, just to catch a race. This brought so much joy to Mr. Tackley and his competitive nature.
George and Wendy had a love story that was unmatched. Over 30 years of friendship led them to a beautiful, exciting, adventurous, and most importantly a life filled with so much love and happiness.
Mr. Tackley was a member of the Onondaga Horsemen’s Association, serving as a board member for many years. He stabled horses at the New York State Fairgrounds for over 40 years. Some of his favorite memories including the famous Syracuse ”Miracle Mile” and closest friendships were created there that lasted his lifetime.
He was a generous man, always trying to help where he could without ever asking for anything in return. He never wanted recognition, just knowing he helped someone was enough for him. Wendy would be so honored if his family and friends would pay it forward and continue with random acts of kindness.
He is survived by his longtime love, Wendy Saulsbury Storrier; her son, Daniel M. Storrier; and the “Saulsbury Team” along with many dear friends who became his family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Nelson Youth Day Foundation, 2849 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13205. This center holds a very special place in his heart.