Charles ‘Ray’ Gilliam
Charles "Ray" Gilliam, died Monday, September 17, 2018, at his home at the age of 34. He succumbed to a quiet, insidious disease: depression disorder. Ray suffered valiantly from the ravages of this physically transparent illness for the last few years. Depression is as deadly as cancer or heart disease. It is a disease of the mind and one’s mental outlook.
His family and friends remember how he combined his love of collecting old coins and jewelry into a career that allowed him to really love what he was doing, and to make a living for his family, while at the same time it was the pleasure he derived from helping others learn the value of the treasures that they owned. His family and friends reminisce about his ever-present smile and the warmth, depth and intelligence behind it. Most of all, they recall the sheer pleasure of his company, how good he made them feel, how free they were to be themselves around him, and how much they will miss him. Ray cared about people in the purest way. He loved them for who they were and because he wished the best for them, without guile and without asking anything in return. Ray had so much goodness, so much capacity to bring happiness to others and such a bright future. The world is a lesser place without him.
Ray truly enjoyed the little things in life, antiquing, coin collecting, metal detecting, old jewelry, and auctions. He was passionate about his family and friends, and loved every moment spent with his children. Memorials are suggested for his children, cards are available at all James and Gahr locations.
Charles Ray Gilliam is survived by the love of his life, Deana Gann; children, Cadence Gilliam, Leighton Gilliam, Jon Griffin, Maleik Griffin, Cash Gilliam, Carly Gilliam, Alaina Gilliam, and Charlie Gilliam; mother, Elizabeth Gilliam, of TX; brothers, Shane Gilliam (Stephanie) of Sullivan, MO, and David Gilliam, of GA; sister, Ashley Gilliam, of Houston TX; the family dog Hank; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ruth Gilliam.
Funeral services were held on Sunday, September 23, 2018 at 4 p.m. at the St. James Chapel of the James & Gahr Mortuary with Brother Mick Thrasher officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 2 p.m. until service time.