Samuel D. Gilley Jr.

Samuel Dell Gilley Jr. was born on April 16, 1971 and passed away on June 7, 2013. Sam was born in Chula Vista, California, the first son of Samuel Sr. and Sandra Gilley, and graduated from Chula Vista High School in 1989. Sam was an avid athlete and sports enthusiast, played organized baseball for more than a decade, as well as played defensive tackle on the high school varsity football team. He worked a wide variety of jobs in several states, excelled at customer service, and enjoyed a fantastic relationship with his beloved wife Nancy and their handsome young son, Sammie III.

Unfortunately, at the age of 41, Sam was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and battled like a true Spartan warrior in an attempt to live a long life.

During his year-long battle with this insidious disease, Sam was carried by the love and support of his wife, friends, family and well-wishers and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about colon cancer and the need for regular physical examinations.

Sam will be missed by all of his many friends and family members. He was a strong, gentle, humble and generous man, quick to laugh and help others.

Sam is survived by his lovely, faithful wife Nancy and their 6 year old son, Samuel III, his father, Samuel Sr, and mother Sandra, sister Catherine and brother John, as well as several nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

Funeral Mass will be on Friday, June 14 2013, 3 p.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church (1120 Cuyamaca Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91911).

Blessed are those who died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.

Eternal rest grant Samuel, O Lord.

May he rest in peace. Amen.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.