Donnie Hugh Gilliam

Donnie Hugh Gilliam, affectionately known as “Pappy”, was born on July 31, 1942 and passed away suddenly January 12, 2026, at the age of 83.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Donnie is now reunited with his beloved wife, Esther Elam Gilliam, who passed away in 2004, as well as his cherished parents, Henry & Emma Williams Gilliam.  He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Glenn Gilliam & Earl Gilliam; his sisters, Monnie Jean Dunn & Delena Beculheimer; and two nephews, Byron Beculheimer & John Gilliam.

He is survived by Linda Marie Ball (Gary Dean) of West Liberty, KY, whom he loved as a daughter and lovingly referred to as his “Little Sis”; two nieces, Brenda Sue Gilliam & Pam Gilliam; four nephews, Kevin Beculheimer, David Beculheimer, Stephen Beculheimer, and Todd Gilliam; his sister-in-law, Margaret Hutchinson Gilliam; along with several cousins, extended family & friends whose lives he touched.

Donnie shared an extraordinary and unbreakable bond with Linda.  She remained by his side until the very end, fiercely loyal, honoring and respecting every wish he made.  Known for spoiling him rotten, Linda cared for him with deep devotion and love.  Their bond was truly like no other, and in every way, she stepped into the role of the daughter he never had.

Donnie’s love for his late wife Esther, with whom he shared 35 wonderful years of marriage, was a defining part of his life.  He often spoke of her as his best friend and greatest source of joy.

Known to all as “Pappy”, Donnie was recognizable by his signature look – curling the tips of his mustache.  He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, such as taking donuts to Frederick and May – whom he affectionately called “his boys” – and handing out dollar bills to children at the wellness center, delighting in the smiles they brought him and the smiles he brought to others.  Donnie had a big heart:  loving, kind, and generous, yet always straightforward and honest; if he didn’t care for something, you knew it.  His contributions to the community were many, often given quietly and without expectation of recognition.

Donnie proudly served his community as a corrections officer at the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex in West Liberty, Kentucky, where he was respected for his dedication, fairness, and commitment to his work.

A man of strong faith, Donnie loved attending Sunday services and cherished his relationship with God.

In his quieter moments, Donnie enjoyed beekeeping, was a proud member of the Elkfork Lodge, and spent peaceful time on the porch talking with Linda and watching hummingbirds.

Donnie Hugh “Pappy” Gilliam will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, integrity, and unwavering love for family and community.  His legacy of kindness, honesty, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Funeral services, 1 p.m., Friday, January16, 2025 at the Potter Funeral Home, with Bro. Hunter Fraley officiating.  Burial to follow in the Lacy Creek Church of Christ Cemetery.  Visitation from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Friday, January 16, 2025 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Pallbearers:  Glennis Goodpaster, Henry Lawson, David Beculheimer, Kevin Beculheimer, Todd Gilliam, and Danny Dyer.   

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donnie Hugh Gilliam, please visit our floral store.