Eugene J. Gillam 1933—2020
Eugene J. Gillam, 87, of Rockford went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 27, 2020. Born on December 13, 1933 in Phoenix, AZ; son of Eugene and Marie (Gaskill) Gillam. Graduate of Phoenix Union High School and Arizona State University. Gene served in the United States Army. Married to Helen Scurlock on August 22, 1958. Gene retired from teaching after 35 years in the Long Beach Unified School District at Millikan and Poly High Schools, where he taught English and Public Speaking. He then substitute taught in Phoenix. After leaving AZ to live near his daughter and family in what he considered the frozen tundra of northern IL, he attended Heartland Community Church where he was active in leading small groups. Survived by his wife, Helen; daughter, Robin (Timothy) Benskin; grandchildren, Megan (Josh) Kelly, Branden (Anna) Benskin; great grandchildren, Ezekiel and Judah Kelly. Preceded in death by his parents and sister, JoAnn Gillam. The family is grateful to Northern Illinois Hospice and Visiting Angels for the loving care they provided. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 am, Sat., Jan. 30 at Central Christian Church, 2460 Milwaukee Rd, Beloit, WI 53511. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com . In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you would make a donation to House of Grace (a Haitian orphanage), via Central Christian Church at the address above.