Lola Gilley

Miss Lola Gilley, age 93 of Critz, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at The Landmark Center in Stuart, VA. She was born in Henry County, Virginia on April 9, 1932, to the late Richard Moir Gilley, Sr. and Carrie Etta Moran Gilley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a twin sister, Lois “Dimple” Plaster (Musco); a sister, Barbara Ann Foley, three brothers, James Lester Gilley, Rev. Fred Gilley (Jean), and Richard ”Junior” Gilley, Jr. (Helen); a brother-in-law, Jimmy Hancock; and a special friend, Curtis Sawyers. 

As a lifetime member of Salem United Methodist Church, Lola’s commitment to her faith was evident in her active participation in church activities, where she made lasting connections and friendships that enriched her life and the lives of others. Her charismatic personality and joyful spirit made her a beloved figure in her community—a person who could light up a room with her presence and bring smiles to those around her. While Lola did not have children of her own, she took great pride in helping to raise her siblings, becoming a second mother to them and nurturing their growth and development with love and compassion. Her happiness and zest for life were infectious, and her ability to connect with others left a profound impact on many.

Miss Lola Gilley is survived by siblings; Elaine Gilley Hancock and Paul Gilley (Betty); a brother-in-law, James Foley; special nieces, Carolyn Simmons and Gay Bryant; special neighbors, Charles and Winnie Smith, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held Sunday May 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Moody Funeral Home with Rev. Tommy Shepherd officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Patrick Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Church, 153 Salem Church Road, Patrick Springs, Virginia 24133. Moody Funeral Service in Stuart has been entrusted with the services and online condolences may be sent to www.moodyfuneralservices.com.