Maria “Rida” Gelzer Hatley was born on October 5, 1933, in Lloyd, Florida, and passed away on April 6, 2026, in Panama City, Florida.

As a young girl, Rida moved with her family to Marianna, Florida, where she was raised and educated. She later settled in Panama City, where she worked for Southern Bell Telephone Company for 17½ years before retiring.

During this time, she met her husband, Billy Wayne Hatley, and they were married on March 2, 1974. Following Bill’s final military assignment in Germany, the couple returned to Panama City, where their daughter, Stacy Lynn Hatley, was born.

Rida greatly enjoyed spending time with her daughter and visiting with family, friends, and neighbors. She will be remembered for her gentle soul, caring nature, and strong tenacity, and will be deeply missed by all who were touched by her life.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel in Panama City, Florida. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

Rida is survived by her daughter, Stacy Lynn Hatley. She was preceded in death by her husband; three siblings: Ophelia Eloise Gelzer Moody, Marian Jean Gelzer Medlock, and William Washington Gelzer.