Gary Gillilan

     Gary Dean Gillilan, 84, of Chillicothe, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe. Born on February 8, 1940, Gary was the beloved son of Jerry B. Gillilan and Mary Margaret (Grouse) Gillilan. A proud 1958 graduate of Chillicothe High School in Chillicothe, Missouri, he later dedicated several years to working with UPS before retiring. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Chula, Missouri, and took immense pride in his life as a farmer. On November 29, 1974, Gary married Sandra Torres, with whom he shared nearly 50 years of love and companionship. Gary cherished spending time on his farm, where he created countless memories with family and friends.

     Gary was known as a man who could do just about everything and anything he put his mind to. He loved flying planes and also enjoyed riding motorcycles, three-wheelers, and snowmobiles. Skilled with his hands, Gary liked restoring leather furniture and saddles. He was also known for his love of cattle, horses, and his beagle dogs.

     He is survived by his loving wife, Sandy (Torres) Gillilan; his daughter, Teresa Dennis, and her husband, Don, of Meadville, Missouri; three sons, David Gillilan and wife Linda of Chula, Missouri, Chip Karnes of Chillicothe, Missouri, and Shon Gillilan with his wife Jessica of Chillicothe, Missouri. Gary leaves behind a legacy of nine grandchildren: Kristy Patrick, Keith Dennis, Jordan Gillilan, Calvin Lollar, Cyrsten Sarbaugh, Shawna Karnes, Katherine Gillilan, Dean Gillilan, and Amelia Gillilan; along with twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Guile, and her husband Richard, as well as many nieces and nephews.

     Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Mary Margaret Gillilan; his daughter, LaRenda Lollar; his grandson, Cameron Lollar; and a great-grandson, Marshall Gillilan.

     A visitation service will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on Saturday November 2nd, 2024 at 10am.

     A Funeral service will follow immediately after at 11am and will conclude with burial at Brassfield Cemetery. 

     Memorials in honor of Gary Gillilan can be made out to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.