John Gilley's Obituary
On Monday, August 24th, 2021, Johnny Ray Gilley, husband, father, grandfather, passed away at the age of 74. John was born on October 2nd, 1947 in Skiatook, OK to Waymon and Wilma (Switzner) Gilley. He was a humble man who spent his working years as a contractor and carpenter. Early on in his life, he worked in a cotton field. On September 21st, 1964, he married Mary Jean Clements. They raised two children, Jeffery Mark and Anita Ann. John had a passion for building, designing, and rigging things. He was well known for “Papa John-ing” things, his artistic ability, and being stubborn. He knew how materials worked together and could design, or redesign, anything he set his mind to. John created music and played the guitar; he also enjoyed painting with his wife, Mary. Many years were spent on the waters of Skiatook lake as a professional bass fisherman alongside his brother, Bill Gilley. They won many tournaments and awards. John was preceded in his death by his parents, Waymon and Wilma; wife, Mary Jean; daughter, Anita Ann; and many siblings. He is survived by his son, Jeffrey; three grandchildren, Krystal, Rachael, and Jeffrey; and siblings, Dorothea and Bill. John was a private man and per his wishes there will be no services. John will be cremated at Floral Haven Funeral Home in Broken Arrow, OK. John’s ashes will be spread at Wolf Creek Pass in Colorado to spend eternity with his wife and daughter. The family wishes to send a special thank you to Rachael & Joshua Bookout and the staff at Pawhuska Hospital for their care and compassion.
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