Byron Gene

Gilliam

Byron Gene Gilliam, age 77, of Freetown, passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Gilliam was a longtime, devoted member of the Freetown Church of Christ, where he was a cherished part of the church family.

Byron Gilliam retired from Columbus Water and Sewer after many years of dedicated and faithful service. In addition to his professional career, Mr. Gilliam proudly served as a member of the United States Army National Guard, demonstrating his commitment to serving both his community and his country.

Byron loved his family dearly and treasured every moment spent with them. He enjoyed many hobbies, including golfing, fishing, line dancing and playing pool. Byron had a way of finding joy in whatever he did and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His joyful spirit and his kind heart will always be remembered by all who knew him.

Born on January 1, 1949, in Maryland, Byron was the son of Byron P. and Margaret (Steele) Gilliam, both of whom preceded him in death. On July 27, 1979, he married Iris Dianne Anderson, and she preceded him in death on January 31, 2021.

Survivors include one daughter, Catherine Gilliam Yco of Philippines; two sons: Apollo Gilliam of Philippines and Eugene Gilliam of Philippines; one step-daughter, Tanya McDonald; one step-son, Douglas Scott Pearson; grandchildren: Chasity Muns, Whitnea Miller, Haley (Ryan) Pennington, April Rose, William McDonald, Nicole Pearson, Ronny (Jacob) Schluckbier, Ezra Engle, Courtney Rose, Ronald Pearson, Isiaah Engle, and Jayron Pearson; great-grandchildren: Jayli Muns, Jasmine Muns, Jocelyn Muns, Nash Pennington, Raeli Pennington, Braelin Kell, Aaliya Engelking, Kindred Kell, Quinn Engelking, Jackson Schluckbier, Sutton Pennington, Legend Patton, Braylin Staggs, Mariah Engle, and Lorelai Schluckbier; two brothers: John Q. (Donita) Gilliam and Garvin (Kathy) Gilliam; and several nieces and nephews.

Byron was also preceded in death by one son, Quincy Gilliam; one granddaughter, Destiny Alderson; one grandson, Michael Pruitt; two sisters: Lorna “Sissy” Bogard and Peggy Gilley; step-daughter, Tammy Pearson; and step-son, Ronald Francis.

Funeral services for Byron Gene Gilliam will be conducted at 12:00 noon on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Freetown Church of Christ with Pastor Barry DeWitt officiating. Friends may call from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Freetown Church of Christ and from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 noon on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Freetown Church of Christ.

Military honors will be presented by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1925, American Legion Post 89, Disabled American Veterans 47, and Vietnam Vets 7.

Memorials may be given to Freetown Church of Christ.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com