James Clifford Gulliford

With deep sadness and immense gratitude, we celebrate the life of James C. Gulliford, who was lovingly received into heaven on August 30, 2024. Jim’s boundless dedication to his family, his warm kindness towards others, and the joyful smile he shared with so many are just a few of the treasured ways he will forever live on in our hearts.

Born on April 2, 1938, in Spokane, Washington, to Clyde and Vivian Gulliford, Jim’s early years were shaped by the values of the Boy Scouts of America, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1953. He served proudly in the Navy aboard the USS Shangri-La for two years before studying business at Washington State University, where he met Marjorie Gollehon from Conrad, Montana. Their chance meeting grew into a deep and lasting love, leading to their marriage in Spokane on October 13, 1962.

Jim’s life was a reflection of the Scouting values he held dear—trustworthiness, loyalty, and kindness. These principles were more than just ideals for him; they were his way of life. After settling in Vancouver, Washington, in 1968, Jim worked with Boise Cascade and U.S. National Bank in Portland, dedicating 18 years of service. Later, his love for people led him to the hardware retail industry, where he continued to touch lives at High School Pharmacy and Parkrose Hardware until his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in April 2024.

Throughout his life, Jim exemplified remarkable character and faith, profoundly impacting his family, his grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His commitment to Jesus Christ shone brightly through his quiet demeanor, strong convictions, and unwavering dedication to his church community, Christ Community in Ridgefield, WA. Jim’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Marjorie, their daughter Debbie Gaylor of Mooresville, North Carolina, and sons Jeff and Greg Gulliford of Vancouver, Washington, along with eight grandchildren, Chris Gaylor and Brad Gaylor (Debbie and Darren Gaylor), Josh Gulliford, Jenna Paulsen, and Andrew Gulliford (Jeff and Karla Gulliford), and Jake Gulliford, Nathan Gulliford and Barbara Kattke (Greg and Carol Gulliford), and three great-grandchildren, Ryker and Zander Gulliford and Grayson Kattke all of whom he greatly adored.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on October 11, 2024 at 12 noon at Memorial Lutheran Church in Vancouver, WA (2700 E 28th St, Vancouver, WA). All are welcome.

For those who are not able to attend but would like to watch the service, a private Facebook Live showing will be made available. Please reach out to Greg Gulliford at [email protected] for details.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Jim to Christ Community Church, 2630 S. Hillhurst Road, Ridgefield, WA. 98642.