Maria K. Gilley

Maria K. “Rita” Gilley, 82, of Bradenton, Florida, peacefully passed away on March 2, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving son, Vincent Gilley, and Pam Carter.

Maria was born on December 31, 1943, a premature baby who was sent home with little hope of survival. But from the very beginning, she was a fighter. Her grandmother, Mini Baker, lovingly cared for her — layering her in peanut butter and carrying her on a pillow — determined that she would live. And live she did. What began as a fragile start became a powerful testimony of strength, resilience, and faith that carried her through 82 beautiful years.

She grew up in a family of four children — three girls and one boy — and later married her childhood sweetheart, Dilworth Gilley. Together they shared two children: a son, Alex, who passed away at birth, and a devoted son, Vincent, who survives her.

Maria dedicated her life to service. She first poured into young minds as a third-grade elementary school teacher. She later continued her commitment to the community as a deputy with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, where she faithfully served until retiring in the 1990s.

Maria was truly the heart of her family. She loved baking and cooking for those she loved, tending to her garden, and she never missed a birthday call. Her laughter filled every room, and her wisdom guided generations. She was a giver, a protector, and a woman with a heart of gold — truly one of a kind.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted son, Vincent Gilley; her grandchildren, Toccara “Gilley” McKnight of Sarasota, Florida, Treshawn Simmons of Sarasota, Florida, and Vincent Gilley Jr. of Georgia; along with 10 great-grandchildren who will continue her beautiful legacy.

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