Jerrel "Jerry" Michael Gilley

Jerrel “Jerry” Michael Gilley, 77, passed away Wednesday, June 26th, at the Hospice House in Poland.

Born July 10, 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Jerry was the son of Thomas and Aychie Ruth (Barnett) Gilley.

Jerry graduated from Ocean Springs Mississippi High School in 1964 and obtained a bachelor’s degree in physics from Pomona College in 1968. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and in 1968 became a helicopter pilot, serving in Vietnam and achieving the rank of Captain. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Naval Commendation Medal, and Distinguished Flying Cross. Upon discharge from Vietnam, he flew search and rescue in Cherry Point, North Carolina.

Prior to retirement, Jerry worked for Delphi Corporation in Warren for 28 years as a superintendent. In 2001, Jerry decided to further his education and obtained an associate degree in horticulture from Kent State University. He worked for Draime Estate Gardens in Howland as a Horticulturist for several years. He was a member of the Boardman United Methodist Church.

Jerry loved gardening and traveling to many Japanese gardens in this country. He created many beautiful flower beds around his property, with a collection of many unusual plants. He also enjoyed reading and traveling both at home and abroad. Jerry lived his life with kindness and integrity; he was truly an officer and a gentleman.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Janet L. (Knerr) Gilley, whom he married on December 18, 1994; his sister Carolyn (J.W.) Webb; his daughter Jennifer Robyn Gilley (Nathan Fullerton) and his daughter-in-law Heidi Peditto; his grandchildren Ashley (David) Tessier, Allysa Gilley, Rhiannon (Nathan) Kurtz, and Kieran Fullerton; and his great-grandchildren James, Michael, Arianna, Brianna, Zoey, and Owen Tessier. He is also survived by his former wife Katherine Gilley.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his son John Forrest Gilley, and his brother Wilton Gilley.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, July 12th, from 11:00 AM- 12:00 PM , at Boardman United Methodist Church. A Memorial Service will be held July 12th, 12:00 PM followed by a luncheon at the church.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to the Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512.