Lena “Dean” (McKissack) Gilley, age 91, went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, June 25, 2019, at the Saad Hospice Retreat in Mobile. She was born on January 4, 1928, to Preston McKissack and Bessie Parker in Brewton, Alabama. She was married to Leroy Gilley for over 62 years and was a long time resident of Chickasaw where she lived for 45 years. She was known for piddling with her flowers and fiddling in the yard. Dean firmly believed that cleanliness is next to Godliness and was known for keeping a pristine home. She was a member of The Order of Eastern Star Toulmin Chapter #455 for over 60 years. Granny was known for her loving spirit and her kind heart; she met no stranger. She loved to root for her Auburn football “boys” and would share a “War Eagle” with anyone she met. Her love of Aubie and brunch, with Kate and Danyell, will be fondly remembered as well as her loving smile.
Mrs. Gilley was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Gilley; her brothers, Elmes McKissack, Roger McKissack, James McKissack; sisters, Dolly Scott, Annette Davis; and great-granddaughter, Tori “Tes” Elane Stewart.
She is survived by her brother, Bill (Lillian) McKissack; one daughter, Patricia Gilley (Larry) Waltman of Semmes; her two granddaughters, Danyell Low-Stewart of Satsuma and Deanna Waltman of Marion; and her beloved great-granddaughter Katelynn “Kate” Stewart of Auburn; nieces, nephews, cousins, and dearest friends.
Pallbearers that will be serving: Jayson Coaker, Elvin “Boo” Ross III, Jerry Davis Jr., and Donnie Courtney. Honorary Pallbearers include: Gene Coaker, Bill McKissack, Devon Busbey, and Cody Coaker.
Funeral services will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens on Saturday, June 29, 2019. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m., and the service will begin at noon with burial to follow at the gardens. Mrs. Gilley’s family would like to extend our gratitude to the staff at Saad Hospice Retreat and Mobile Memorial Gardens. “She will be in our hearts forever because of the legacy that will last for eternity and when we gather again. Goodnight Granny, we will see you in the morn.” ♬ I love you, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, I do, I do ♬
1928-2019
A chapel service will be held at 12pm on Saturday, 06/29/2019 from Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, followed by a committal service at the grave site.
