Floyd Gilliam
Granite City | Save
Floyd Eugene Gilliam, age 88, of Granite City, Illinois, passed peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on May 22, 1937, in Huzzah, Missouri, Floyd was the beloved son of the late Donald Herbert and Maggie Elizabeth (Nelson) Gilliam.
On October 6, 1956, Floyd married the love of his life, Iline Estella Hughes, at Word of Life Tabernacle in Madison, Illinois. For 66 beautiful years, they shared a bond of unwavering devotion and faith until her passing on September 4, 2022. Together, they built a home grounded in love, laughter, and family.
Floyd was a man of integrity, faith, and quiet strength. A proud and dedicated employee of McDonnell-Douglas, he gave thirty-six years of service before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and loyalty. Outside of work, he was happiest in God’s creation—hunting, fishing, spending time at the family farm in Huzzah, or simply sitting under the open sky.
Family was Floyd’s greatest treasure. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His warm smile, gentle humor, and steadfast love left an imprint on everyone blessed to know him.
Floyd’s memory will forever be cherished by his daughters: Linda R. (David) Kessler of Granite City, IL; M. Darlene (Glenn) Allmeyer White of O’Fallon, MO; and Melissa M. (Eric) Marcus of Granite City, IL. He leaves behind a proud legacy in his grandchildren: Sarah (Albert) Forrester, Eric Marcus II, Jake Marcus, Grace Marcus, Stephanie Kessler, and Elana White; and in his great-grandchildren: Hallie (Greggory Avants), Wyatt, Ella and Rhett Forrester, and Peyton and Lily White, great-great-grandson, Waylon James Avants, He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He now joins in eternal rest his beloved Iline, their infant son, grandsons Jerod White and Evan James Marcus, and his sisters Frances Blair, Hallie Stulce, Elizabeth Woods, Opal Mincher, and Velva Gilliam.
A celebration of Floyd’s life will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Calvary Life Church in Granite City, IL. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m., officiated by Pastor Mark Maynard. Floyd will be laid to rest beside his beloved Iline at Skaggs Cemetery in Steelville, Missouri.
Memorial donations may be made to Skaggs Cemetery, and donations will be accepted at the church.
Floyd’s life was a testament to faith, family, and love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will continue through the generations he so deeply cherished.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
