On December 3, 1929, Verley M. Gilmore was born to Moristeen and Turner Gilmore of Memphis, TN. She was one of three children, with two brothers Turner (deceased) and Desota.

Verley was a self-made woman who was always determined to make her way in the world. Early in her life, she decided that she had the desire and passion for working in cosmetology and helping women be as beautiful as they wanted to be. It was becoming a certified, licensed cosmetologist that allowed Verley to see the path of her life revealed for her.  Being a forward-thinking woman, Verley had always wanted to own her own business. Therefore,  she was not contented to open her business and pay rent in someone else's space.  She knew that if she bought the building, it was the way of becoming a landlord and business owner, and she did it. Her desire for entrepreneurship would always be her driving force. She never felt that she was limited, and she never let anyone hold her back.

She was a faithful member of the St. Andrew AME Church, where she served for many years as an usher.  Verley was married for over 20 years to Master Sargent Arthur L. Mitcham (deceased) and became a  VFW Auxiliary member.  As a member, she participated in projects to support veterans' families and those that resided in nursing homes.

On January 21, 2021, Verley made her transition from this life. She was a resident of the Allenbrooke nursing and rehabilitation center. There will be a public viewing at 1:00 pm on Thursday, March 4, 2021, in the chapel at The Forest Hill Midtown Cemetery, 1661 Elvis Presley Blvd. At 2:00 pm, and there is a brief graveside service. All visitors must wear a protective facial mask to enter the building.  And social distancing has to be observed.

She leaves behind her son Richard Williams of Memphis, her brother Desota Gilmore of Memphis,  her nephews: Turner Gilmore III – Miami, Fla, Kelvin Gilmore-Memphis. Her nieces: Vicki Palmer -Atlanta, GA, Gilda Lewis-Memphis, Kimberly Sims-Memphis, and Cathy Gilmore Mc Pherson-San Diego, CA.

Verley touched countless lives and causes and always helped anyone that needed a leg up in life or a listening ear. We will forever miss her beauty, kindness, laughter, and light.