Airman First Gilley

Born in Anniston, Alabama, on August 29, 1999, to the devoted parents Michael Gilley and Tarnetta Jenkins Elston, Ahmad's life was a journey marked by love, laughter, and unwavering dedication.

Ahmad was a scholar at heart, completing his education in the Richland County School System and graduating from Lower Richland High School in Hopkins, South Carolina. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, where he met the love of his life, Diamond Lovett. United in marriage on September 10, 2024, their bond was a testament to love's enduring power, filled with cherished memories and joyous moments.

In his desire to serve his country, Ahmad enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he represented the values of honor and commitment with pride. Stationed in Italy, he excelled at the Aviano Air Base as a Dental Assistant with the 31st Dental Squadron. Ahmad faced health challenges with courage and grace, spending his final days surrounded by the love of his family, who remained steadfastly by his side.

A gentle giant with an infectious personality, Ahmad radiated warmth and kindness; his smile had the power to brighten the darkest of rooms. He embraced life with enthusiasm, from reading, playing basketball, video games, and exercising to indulging in his love for fried chicken wings - always the proper way! His spirit of adventure inspired him to try snowboarding in Denver, jump from cliffs, despite his inability to swim, and his heart was centered on creating lasting memories with his wife Diamond, embarking on countless road trips filled with laughter, exploration, and sights that invigorated their souls.

Ahmad always encompassed existence with a joyful spirit, seamlessly intertwining work and play. A sports enthusiast, he was an ardent fan of the Alabama Roll Tide and the Atlanta Falcons, often gathering with friends and family to cheer passionately for his teams. Ahmad will be remembered not just for his accomplishments, but for the impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him.

As time winds its course, we look ahead to a future where Ahmad's spirit transcends this earthly realm, as he embarks on his journey towards eternal peace. On the evening of Thursday, November 6, 2025, Airman First Class Ahmad Jafa Gilley traded his earthly wings for eternal rest reuniting with his father, Michael Gilley, his grandparents, Warfredo and Bertha Gilley and Foy and Geneva Wise, his aunt, Joanna Hooks, and uncle, Duncan Jemison.

In the tapestry of memories that remain, Ahmad leaves behind a legacy woven with love, laughter, and unwavering familial ties. His presence will forever resonate in the hearts of his loving and devoted wife Diamond Gilley; mother Tarnetta Elston; sister, Erica (Kevondre) McMeans; niece, Marley Ford; aunts, Tanya Gilley, Mary Jenkins, and Alice Hart; uncle, Willie Jenkins; mother-in-law, Philisa (Nigi McKenzie) Tunstell; sisters-in-law, Amarra Tunstell, Nzya McKenzie, Nori McKenzie, and Ayoni McKenzie; brothers-in-law, Amoni Tunstell, Omari Tunstell, and Nijaah Hagens; aunt-in-law, Crystal (Leon) Calloway; uncles-in-law, Charles Harris and Retired Senior Master Sargent Baylen (Retired Airman Carlean) Johnson; close friends, Tevin Craig, Rodrekius Dorman, Jakobe Blevins, Christopher King, Tramia Scott, and Ragarros Summerville; and a host of family and friends who cherished him dearly. His legacy will resonate within the hearts of all who had the privilege to share moments with him.

Ahmad Jafa Gilley's journey on this earth may have come to an end, but his spirit, love, and laughter will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be deeply missed and timelessly remembered. Rest in eternal peace, dear Ahmad. Your legacy of love continues to inspire us.