Noel Gilley

Noel Richard Gilley, 76, passed away July 26, 2025, at the Hospice Care Center in Chattanooga, TN surrounding by his family. He was born December 25, 1948, in Chattanooga.

Rick grew up in East Chattanooga area and graduated from Chattanooga Central in 1967. He retired, after a multi-decade career at Norfolk Southern Railroad, but continued his love of railroad history. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially spending time in the sun or at a beach. He enjoyed tennis, golf and listening to music. Rick was also a Shriner. He was inquisitive, spending time in his later years on his computer, delving into topics of interest and watching footage of interesting places around various bodies of water. Most importantly, Rick loved the Lord and had a strong Christian faith throughout his life, and he loved his family dearly.

He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Paulette Sloan Gilley; his children Lori (William) Gracia of Ooltewah, Stephen Gilley of Nashville, Stacy (William) Bearfield of Cleveland, Aimee (Darren) Wester of Reidsville, NC; Siblings Gail Gilley, Tom (Marjorie) Gilley, Starr (Scott) Small, Sondra (Gary) Koch(sister-in-law), Angela Geralds (sister-in-law); eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and his four-legged companions - Jazzy and Kitty Annie.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents, Noel R. Gilley and K. Marie Gilley.

The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the caretakers at the Hospice Care Center. In lieu of a funeral service, Rick's family will hold a private celebration of life gathering. Donations can be made in Rick's name to the Shriners Children Hospital.