Patricia Ann Gilley

Patricia Ann (Berthney) Gilley, affectionately known as Pat, left this world on February 8, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born on September 18, 1943, in Jamaica Long Island, New York, she was a vibrant soul who lived a life filled with creativity and selflessness. Pat passed away in Clayton, Delaware, after a courageous battle with Lung Cancer, surrounded by the love of her family.
Pat was the daughter of William Peter Berthney and Geraldine Machan-Berthney. They moved from New York to California, then to Virginia eventually settling in Aberdeen, MD. She graduated from Aberdeen High School in 1961, met Gerald Dean Gilley and they married in 1962. They moved to Delaware in the early 70's so her husband could be closer to work at General Motors.
Although Gerald preceded her in death, their union was blessed with four daughters: the late Theresa Marie Gripp, Melissa Sue Gray, Karen Janette Yalch, and Rebecca Jean Gilley. Pat's legacy continued to grow with her beloved grandchildren Tiffanny, Alyssa, Anthony, Courtney, Giavonni, Nico, and Angelika, and her cherished great-grandchildren Gabriel, Josiah, Mia, Annalise, Rebecca, and Jayden.
Pat's professional life was marked by her 29-year tenure at Jo-Ann Fabrics, where her passion for textiles and crafting shone brightly. She excelled in her role and spent six rewarding years as a store manager. Her creativity was not confined to her work; Pat was an avid crafter, known for her fleece blankets and T-shirt quilts that warmed the hearts and homes of many. She took delight in participating in craft shows, sharing her talent and joy with others.
While her four daughters were growing up Pat was a Girl Scout Leader. She started with Brownies and moved to Juniors and Cadets, also was on the service team for the district.
A woman of many interests, Pat's hobbies were as diverse as they were engaging. You could always find her working on jigsaw puzzle during the winter months and loved to Garden "Play in the Dirt" in the Spring and Summer. She had a love for reading books and her book shelves proved it. Coloring in her Inspirational coloring books was her latest passion. Pat loved to vacation in Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg TN in The Great Smoky Mountains. Her spirited personality was evident on the dance floor-if Chubby Checker's "The Twist" was playing, you could be sure Pat was twisting along with a bright smile.
Pat's siblings, Nancy Eggleston and William Jeffery Berthney, remember her as a thoughtful sister who always placed the needs of others before her own. Her selfless nature was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her. Pat's creative spirit and her kindness will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.
As we say farewell to Patricia Ann Berthney, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and love. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the fleece blankets she crafted will continue to provide comfort. Pat's story is one of dedication to her family, her craft, and her community-a story that will be told with fondness for generations to come.
In honoring Pat's journey, we reflect on a life well-lived, a life that left a mark on the hearts of many. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of creativity, selflessness, and thoughtfulness will endure.
A visitation will be held from 2 to 3 PM on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main Street in Smyrna. Memorial services will begin at 3 PM. Burial will be privately held at a later date.