Ronald Christopher “Chris” Gilley, age 51, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.
Chris was the son of Wiley Michael Gilley and Sherry Lynn Long Gilley. He was a graduate of Rehobeth High School. He worked in the kitchen at Hunt’s Restaurant, where he loved his coworkers and formed cherished friendships.
Even though Chris had autism, he had many accomplishments, including earning his driver’s license and achieving a black belt in karate. He enjoyed exercising and lifting weights, playing chess, and watching wrestling. He was an Auburn fan, and also enjoyed NASCAR, especially Dale Earnhardt Sr. and number 77.
Chris loved spending time at the lake, fishing, and riding in the boat. He also enjoyed traveling and trips to the beach. He had many friends who will remember him fondly and cherish the time they shared.
Preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Harold and Maxine Long; paternal grandfather Wiley D. Gilley.
Left to cherish his memory are his parents, Wiley Michael Gilley and Sherry Lynn Long Gilley; his sisters, Melody Angeline Bland (Todd) and Francis McCullough (Ronnie); his paternal grandmother, Maurice Gilley; his special cousin, Curtis Gilley (Cat); and many friends and beloved coworkers at Hunt’s Restaurant. He was a grown man with a child’s soul.
A memorial service will be planned for a later date.
