Gerald Hugh Colley

Gerald Hugh Colley, a man of unwavering courage and profound kindness, completed his earthly journey on March 26, 2025, in Birmingham, AL. Born on August 26, 1945, in Clay County, AL, Gerald was a beacon of strength and generosity throughout his 79 years of life.

Raised by his late parents, Lizzie and JC Colley, Gerald grew up with a strong sense of duty and family. Gerald's legacy continues through his beloved wife, Phuong Minh Colley, his cherished children, Katherine Colley and Christopher (Jocelyn) Colley, and his adored grandchildren, Noah and Grant Colley. He is survived by his siblings, Marcelle Smith, Thurber Colley, and Rachel Gibson. He joined his siblings, Wilma Colley and Willian McDaniel in Heaven, as well as his brother and sister in laws, Lindy McDaniel, Joe Nathan Smith, Dean Colley, and Elwyn Gibson. His life was enriched by a host of nieces and nephews, whom he held dear.

In 1963, Gerald graduated from Mellow Valley High School, taking the first step in what would be a lifelong commitment to education and service. He attended Southern Union in Wadley from 1964 to 1965, later earning his degree in Agribusiness from Auburn University in 1968. His academic accomplishments laid the foundation for a life characterized by discipline, leadership, and a desire to serve his country and community.

Gerald's sense of duty led him to be drafted into the Army in 1968, marking the beginning of a distinguished military career. Gerald was commissioned through OCS. He held multiple positions of increasing responsibility, including Operation Officer, Logistics Officer, Company CDR, Directorate of Combat Development, Plans, training, and Readiness Officer, Counterintelligence Officer, Military Intelligence Executive Officer and Executive Officer to Strategic Plans, Operational Research Analyst. Gerald retired from the Army as a Major, embodying the values of bravery and commitment to excellence. He obtained qualifications to include Special Forces, Ranger, Airborne and Pathfinder.

Beyond his military service, Gerald was an active member of the Rotary Club, where he continued to exemplify the principles of service and fellowship. His faith was an integral part of his life, and he served with devotion as a Sunday school teacher and mentor at Bethel Baptist Church, sharing his wisdom and nurturing the spiritual growth of those around him.

Gerald's life was a testament to the power of courage, selfless service and kindness. He approached each day with a steadfast resolve to make a positive impact on the world with his generosity, whether through his military service, his involvement in his church, or simply in the way he interacted with his family and friends. His presence was a source of comfort and inspiration, and his legacy will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

As we remember Gerald Hugh Colley, we celebrate a life lived with honor, fairness, and integrity, a heart given to love, and a spirit that was never daunted. He has left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life. Though Gerald has departed from this world, the values he embodied and the memories he created will forever remain as guiding lights for those he leaves behind.

A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at Bethel Baptist Church in Newton, AL with Bro. Mike Griggs. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. Burial with military honors will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in Alabama National Cemetery.