COLUMBUS
Sondra D. Gilley, 79, of Columbus, a cherished soul whose warmth and melody enriched the lives of many, entered eternal life to be with her Lord, October 7, 2025, at IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Born on December 24, 1945, in Indianapolis, Sondra’s life was a symphony of love, dedication, and service, harmonized with the joy of music and family.
A proud 1963 graduate of Columbus High School, Sondra’s zest for life and her entrepreneurial spirit led her to a fulfilling career as a sales representative and director for Stanley Home Products, where she dedicated over 40 years. Her professional achievements, however, were only a part of her vibrant story. Sondra’s heart truly belonged to the music and the congregations of the United Christian Church in Paris Crossing and the Bethel Baptist Church in Columbus, where she served not only as a choir director but also as a gifted piano player, touching the hearts of all who heard her play.
Sondra’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her commitment to her community. Her love for music was only rivaled by her love for her family. She was the beloved daughter of the late Curtis Brodhecker and Norma J. Day Brodhecker Maxwell. On July 16, 1967, she married Roger L. Gilley, who remains to honor her memory. Together, they raised a family that includes their children, Jeanne Anne (Brian) Hopkins of Columbus, Deborah (Damon) Marling of Paris Crossing, and Stephen (Jenny) Gilley of Columbus. She will also be remembered by her grandchildren, Jordan Hopkins, Brandon (Codi) Hopkins, Caleb (Alyssa) Marling, Megan (Eric) McIntosh, Tanner (Madison) Marling, Cole Gilley and his fiance, Emma Kaelin, Cadence Gilley and Chloe Gilley; great-grandchildren, Bennett, Harper, Molly, Miley, Kinsley, Bodee, Clete, Lakyn, Cole, Ivy, Mya, Eva and baby boy to arrive in March 2026; sister, Rebecca (Reggie) Nikirk of Bedford; mother-in-law, Lillian Gilley of Columbus; brothers and sisters-in-law, Rick Moutardier of Bedford, Keith and Trudi Gilley of North Vernon, Denny and Amber Gilley of Columbus, Jill and Tony Garris of Columbus, Jennifer and Danny Fields of Columbus, Sandy Gilley of Batesville and Pam Gilley of Columbus; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Sondra was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Ellen Moutardier and Susan Brodhecker.
Sondra found joy in cooking sweets, tending to her flower garden, and spreading cheer with the simple act of passing out suckers wherever she went. Her love for Christmas and the story of Christmas was profound, and she celebrated the season with an infectious enthusiasm that drew her family and friends into the warmth of the holiday spirit.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 13, 2025, at Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street; Pastor Damon Marling will officiate. Family and friends may gather for visitation from 3-6 p.m. Sunday and from 10 a.m. until service time Monday. Sondra will be laid to rest at the Bethel Baptist Cemetery.
In memory of Sondra, memorial contributions may be made to United Christian Church Building Fund.
Condolences and special memories may be shared with the Gilley family at barkesweaverglick.com.
