James Alvin "Jim" Gilliam Jr.

"James Alvin "Jim" Gilliam, Jr. of Cuba, Missouri was born on June 26, 1942 in Cuba, Missouri to the union of James and Rose Ann (Killeen) Gilliam, Sr. He left from this life, surrounded by family, at his home on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at the age of 77 years. He was a husband, father, friend, business owner, and outdoor enthusiast, and will be greatly missed.

His father established Gilliam Electric and Refrigeration in 1947. James joined his father after returning home from the United States Air Force, where he served in Alaska during the Vietnam War. He continued to own and operate the family business proudly until March 2020.

Jim adored his family. Anytime he openly bragged about them, he had a sparkle in his eye and a big grin on his face. He loved taking his kids and wife along on his outdoor adventures, especially to the family farm down in Huzzah.

One of his most defining characteristics, aside from his gift of one-liners, was that he was always willing to help others. If someone needed him, he was there without hesitation. Even now, stories of his kindness and selflessness continue to be shared with the family and are a true reflection of the impact he has had in the community. Though he was humble about his knowledge, Jim was also known to fix almost anything. He enjoyed learning how things worked and would teach himself what he didn't already know.

Jim had the ability to work hard without question and play hard without apology. He defined time by the hunting and fishing seasons, and the Farmer's Almanac. Which over the years, resulted in friends and family enjoying the numerous fish fries at the shop, and a lot of great haircuts. He loved growing things in his garden and sharing it with anyone who wanted to stop by and help hoe potatoes, or just drink a beer. He also had a knack for roping anyone around him into his latest project using just the right amount of peer pressure and the promise of a good time.

To say he enjoyed his life to the fullest is something he would be proud of. Jim had a big heart and though he was never one to back down from an argument, you always knew exactly where you stood with him.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents James A. and Rose Ann (Killeen) Gilliam, Sr. one sister Sue Starks; one brother-in-law Jimmie Honea.

Those who are left to treasure his memory and to continue his legacy are his loving wife of 33 years Debra (Honea) Gilliam of Cuba, Missouri; four children Michelle Gilliam of Chesterfield, Missouri, Jaclyn and husband Chris Downing of Jefferson City, Missouri, James and wife Jordan Gilliam and Jilliann Gilliam all of Cuba, Missouri; one honorary daughter Shayna Arndt of Jefferson City, Missouri; two grandchildren Justin Gilliam of Chesterfield, Missouri and Scarlet Downing of Jefferson City, Missouri; twin sister Joan and husband Wilford Hadley of St, James, Missouri; two brothers Bill and wife Sylvia Kreamalmyer of Burlington, Iowa, Bob and wife Wanda Kreamalmyer of St. James, Missouri; one brother-in-law David and wife Jan Honea of Cuba, Missouri; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Jim was truly one-of-a-kind, and has left some big shoes to fill in the community. In his honor, the family has started the James A. Gilliam Memorial Scholarship, which will be an annual scholarship given to students graduating from Cuba High School and are attending a trade school. Donations can be made by cash or check. Checks may be made out to James A. Gilliam…Memo: Scholarship Fund. "

The Mizell Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Gilliam family.

Service Details.

Service

When: Saturday, May 30th, 2020 11:00am
Location: Holy Cross Catholic Church
Address: 415 W School CUBA, MO

Interment

Location: Holy Cross Cemetery
Address: Hwy 19 S CUBA, MO

Reception

Location: Gilliam Home
Address: CUBA, MO Notes Due to COVID-19 and limited sitting at the church, if you are unable to attend Jim's service, the family will receive friends at their home at 2:00 p.m. Please stop by for food, fellowship and share your favorite Jim Gilliam memory. × Text Directions Send directions to the event directly to your phone Phone Number: Send × Email Directions Get directions to the event directly to your inbox Email
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