He retired from Parker Hannifin
He was a member of Bridges Chapel Church of God.
He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, and a friend to all.
He was a talented guitar player, who loved playing music for the Lord. He was also an avid fisherman and hunter.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years: Shelby Ruth Gilliam; one daughter: Karen Melinda Gilliam; two sons: Earl Wade Gilliam and Rodney Darrell Gilliam and spouse, David Kelly; grandchildren: Dustin Wade Gilliam, Nolan Keith Gilliam, and Leighton Presley "Spanky" Gilliam; great grandchildren: Lexie Gilliam and Jase Gilliam; sister-in-law: Margie Gilliam; special nieces, nephews, and spouses who were like his children: Ricky Gilliam, Gayle and Jim Fields, Carol and Jeff Walls and David and Robin Gilliam; and several great nieces and great nephews; and special friends: Mary Davis, Ray and Shirley Waldroupe, and the employees of Parker Hannifin.
He was preceded in death by one son: Ronald Keith Gilliam; parents: Dellie and Annie Gilliam; his twin brother: Burwell Gilliam; four other brothers; and five sisters.
The family will receive friends Monday 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm at Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home.
The funeral service will follow at 8 pm in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Clarence Gammill, Rev. Jim Fields and Rev. Dean Brewster officiating.
Interment will be Tuesday at 2 pm in GreeneLawn Memory Gardens. Family and friends are asked to meet at the funeral home at 1:30 pm to go in procession to the cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Ricky Gilliam, David Gilliam, Dustin Gilliam, Leighton Presley Gilliam, Jeff Walls and Earl Wade Gilliam.
Honorary pallbearers are Ray Waldroupe, Gary Layne, and his friends at Bridges Chapel Church of God.
The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Dr. Richard Aasheim and staff, Dr. Sen and staff and the staff of Amedysis Home Health.