Edward E. Gilley

GILLEY, Edward E., 80, of the Ohio Masonic Home, Springfield, died April 5, 2013 in his residence. He was born August 28, 1932 in Middletown, Ohio the son of Troy Henry and Eula (Adkins) Gilley. Ed was a private pilot and served in the USAF at age 16, from 1949-1953. He was a member of the Veterans Of Underage Military Service, Inc. (past National Commander in 1999-2001), Army Air Corps Enlisted Pilots Association, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Ed was a Past Master (1980) of Eastern Star Lodge #55 F&AM, Franklin, Ohio and a member of the Scottish Rite, Valley Of Dayton. He owned and operated Sheet Metal Systems, Inc. in Hamilton, Ohio and later retired from Sheet Metal Local 224 in Dayton, Ohio. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Bessie; four children and spouses: Scott E. Gilley, Middletown, Ohio; Col. (Ret.) Tina M. Chester, USAF and husband Lt. Col. (Ret.) John L. Tillman, USAF, Springfield, Virginia; James C. Gilley, Waynesville, Ohio; and Lt. Col. (Ret.) Mary E. Biggs, USAF and husband MSgt. (Ret.) Michael Biggs, USAF, Warner-Robbins, Georgia; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; brother James & Virginia Gilley, Franklin, Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and an older brother, Troy C. Gilley. Masonic Services will be held at the Ohio Masonic Home Chapel in Springfield, Ohio on Tuesday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m. Memorial Mass will immediately follow with Fr. Ed Gearhart officiating. Interment of ashes will follow at the Ohio Masonic Home Cemetery with USAF Military Honors. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Vitas Hospice.