Scott Wiley Talbott

Scott Wiley Talbott was born on April 7, 1962, in Monte Vista, Colorado, to Jim and Janet Talbott. He was raised on the Talbott family ranch west of Laramie, Wyoming, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. His childhood was filled with hunting, trapping, exploring the surrounding plains and mountains, and working alongside his family. Even from a young age, Scott displayed a tireless work ethic—cutting timber, shearing sheep with his brothers, and (in true big-brother fashion) harassing his sisters.

He attended Sheridan College and earned his degree from the University of Wyoming before embarking on a remarkable 34-year career with the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. Over the course of his tenure, he served in nearly every role within the Wildlife Division—except biologist—and ultimately retired as the second-longest-serving director in the agency’s modern history.

Scott was particularly proud of his leadership in the recovery and delisting of wolves, the resurgence of the Yellowstone grizzly bear population, and the reintroduction of the black-footed ferret. A strong believer in public trust and transparency, he worked to make the agency “the people’s Game and Fish Department,” achieving a 95% credibility rating and 91% public satisfaction during his tenure.

His vision and commitment earned him numerous awards and recognitions, and he served on the boards of several national and regional wildlife organizations. He was a graduate of the FBI Leadership Academy and Leadership Wyoming, and served as President of the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Following retirement, Scott continued to share his deep knowledge and passion for conservation as a Guide and Outfitter Liaison for Safari Club International. His work took him around the globe—from Canada to New Zealand to Africa—but his heart always remained in Wyoming.

Scott knew every corner of his beloved state. A skilled horseman, he traversed countless trails, creeks, hunting camps, and summits on horseback, always eager to share those places with the people he loved. He cherished the meadowlark’s song, the rise of a trout, sunrises and sunsets, hot peppers, cribbage, and hitting his mark. Whether navigating remote wilderness or gathered around a fire, Scott was a fierce competitor, a loyal friend, and an adventurer at heart—devoted to the land and people he held dear.

Of all his accomplishments, Scott was most proud of being a father and grandfather. His sons, Payden and Luke, were his companions in life’s many adventures, and time with his grandson Quincy was, in Scott’s words, “the culmination of everything I’ve worked for.” His family, friends, faith, and love of the natural world defined his life. He found joy in cooking for those he loved, tending his garden, collecting historical oddities, and being the keeper of stories and family lore.

Scott passed peacefully on April 25, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, with a heart full of gratitude—for a life well-lived, the joy and love that surrounded him, and his relationship with God.

He was preceded in death by his parents and will be laid to rest beside them on the family ranch. He is survived by his sons, Payden Wiley and Luke Branson Talbott, and his grandson, Quincy Tripp; his brothers, Jay and Cody Talbott; his sisters, Amy Clay and Betsy DeBolt; and their beloved spouses and children—all of whom he loved deeply.

In honor of Scott’s generous spirit, memorial contributions to your favorite charity or a wildlife conservation organization would be a fitting tribute.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 30, at 2:00 p.m. at the Albany County Fairgrounds in Laramie, Wyoming.