Carelgean Gilley

She was born on August 2, 1938 to Juanita & Ramey H Douglas in Oklahoma City, OK. Carelgean lived a life marked by grace, determination and creativity.

She was proceeded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, James R Gilley. Together, they built a loving family and a lifetime of memories.

Carelgean is survived by her Loving children: Daughter: Aven Gilley, Son: Kevin Gilley, Daughter in law: Mary Gilley, Grandchildren: Autum Love & her husband Jo, Justin Gilley & his wife: Kacy, Great grandchildren: Kolbi & Eli Love & Dallas Gilley

Carelgean grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, and graduated Tuloso Road High School with a scholarship to SMU for drum majorette.

In her early years, her beauty and poise brought her national recognition. She was crowned Miss Texas in 1959. Then went onto achieve first runner-up in Miss Universe Pageant in 1959. She was then signed to Columbia Pictures and appeared in several films and commercials. She was also a franchise holder for the Miss Dallas pageant for a few years.

Before retirement, Carelgean had a successful career in banking; remembered by her colleagues for her professionalism, warmth and dedication.

Carelgean became a foster parent to 33 newborns so they would have a better start to life.

She had many passions that filled her life with color. She was deeply devoted to her children and animals. She found joy and creative expression through painting, cake decorating and was truly gifted with a natural artistic talent.

Carelgean will be remembered for her elegance, her compassion, her creative spirit and her love that she gave so freely! Her legacy lives on in her family she lovingly adored and the many lives that she’s touched!