David Gilley, 78 of Richmond, passed away July 25, 2025. He was born June 20, 1947, to the late Hardin Gilley and Eleanor Smartt Gilley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Samuel Gilley and John Gilley; and nephew, Christopher Gilley.
David is survived by his wife, Janet Rittenhouse Gilley; sisters, Lynn Gilley, Ann Gilley Dabney; sister-in-law, Christina Gilley; children, David Frederick Gilley, Jr., Jesse Lee Gilley, John Hardin Gilley (Julie), Joy Gilley Jones (Adam), Seth Ryan Gilley (Taryn); ‘Papa G’ to his grandchildren, Dielle Gilley Harrell (Jarad), Abby Rae Gilley, Jesse Garritt Gilley, Anatoly Gilley, Vitaly Gilley, Colin Gloster, Sophie Gloster, John Paul ‘J.P.’ Gilley, Charlotte Jane Gilley, Gracie Jones, Liam Ritt Gilley, Jacob Ryan Gilley, Natalie Rose Gilley, and Emerson Reid Gilley. ‘Grandpa G’ to Dale Dumont (Rochelle), Isaiah, Gabby, Rachel and Izabelle Dumont.
He will also be missed by his ex-wife and dear friend, Sharon Gilley; nieces and nephews, Matthew Gilley, Annalynn Gilley, Jacob Gilley, Jennifer Bridges, Amy Bugsby, Kristin Leigh Gilley, Sara McBeath, Samuel Gilley, Justin Tippens, Jordan Tippens, and Andy Gilley.
David loved the outdoors. Life for David was the pursuit of adventure. Professional growth was important to him. He enjoyed mentoring people and having fun with his family. He was Vice President of Corporate Sales for Fed Ex and proudly served in the US Army Airborne Green Beret Special Forces.
The family will receive friends Friday, August 29, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon, at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, Blacksburg. Memorial Services will follow at noon, with Pastor Taylor Rollo officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: https://vawildlife.org/outreach/.
