Billy “Paul” Gilliam

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Dr. Billy “Paul” Gilliam, 71, of Freeburg, IL, born October 24, 1951, in Corsicana, TX, died December 27, 2022, at St. Louis University Hospital.

Paul was currently employed as a Professor at Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis, MO, after earning his PhD in Cyber Security. He was a member of Westview Baptist Church in Swansea, IL. While he proudly served in the United States Army (Special Forces) for 12 years, he felt his greatest accomplishments were working at the Pentagon and teaching at the University.

Paul enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  He was a wonderful and loving husband, father, and Papa to his grandkids. He loved traveling, hiking, horseback riding, and reading.  Paul also loved teaching Sunday School, as his Bible knowledge was extensive, and he enjoyed digging into the historical facts.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Billy Gene and Barbara L, nee Cook, Gilliam, and his grandparents.

Surviving are his wife of 30 years, Cynthia A, nee Krupp, whom he married November 14, 1992 at Third Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO; two sons, Timothy (Deena) Gilliam and Randy (Dawn) Flach; three daughters; Anna (Jake) Howard, Amanda (Ryan) Saenz, and Karin (Brandon) Richardson; a sister, Patricia “Tish” (Gary) Schutte in Arlington, TX; 13 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Westview Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, or to Hope Ranch (a 501(c)3 non-profit organization expanding the quality of life through hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding services). Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation:  Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, January 1, 2023, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, January 2, 2023, at Westview Baptist Church, 2500 Sullivan Drive, Swansea, IL.

Funeral:  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, January 2, 2023, at Westview Baptist Church.

Burial will be held at Green Mount Protestant Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

 

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6 Comments on Billy “Paul” Gilliam

Donna and Larry Johnson said : Guest Report Jan 03, 2023 at 12:44 PM

Our thoughts, sympathy and prayers are with you through this difficult time. Prayers for strength and guidance as you go through each day.

  • Warrenton
  • MO
Aaron & Tammy Welsh said : Guest Report Dec 31, 2022 at 8:04 PM

Our thoughts and prayers for peace for you at this very difficult time. May the memories of your lives together fill you with joy. May the comfort of God surround you through family and friends. Love and hugs, Aaron & Tammy Welsh

  • Belleville
  • Il
MARSHA JAIMET said : Guest Report Dec 29, 2022 at 5:20 PM

Cindy my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

  • Chester
  • IL
MARSHA JAIMET said : Guest Report Dec 29, 2022 at 5:18 PM

Sorry for your loss Cindy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • Chester
  • IL
Denny and Candy Dowd said : Guest Report Dec 28, 2022 at 4:19 PM

We only met Paul a few times, but through Tish we heard about his many accomplishments; his faith, his love for education, and his interesting hobbies. We have prayed for Paul, Cindy, Tish and family frequently during his illness. We pray now you will find comfort and peace in all you shared during your life together. Blessings, Denny and Candy Dowd

  • Arlington
  • TX
Randy said : Guest Report Dec 28, 2022 at 1:22 PM

Cindy, I can’t even imagine what you’re going through right now .as you grieve the loss of Paul. He will be missed immensely. I pray the happy, loving memories you shared are a source of strength, peace and comfort. I am a better person because of him. I’m thinking of you and the family today and everyday. God wrap his loving arms arround you and give you healing. Angie and I love you.

  • Sparta
  • IL

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