Obituary: Robert H. Gilliam

Robert H. Gilliam, 83, died peacefully on Oct. 17, 2013.

Born in Dickson, Tenn., Bob moved to Oak Ridge as a teenager. After graduating from Oak Ridge High School, he went on to earn a DDS from the University of Tennessee, after which he completed a post-doctoral program in periodontics at Tufts University.

Bob spent his entire 30-year professional career in the U.S. Air Force’s Dental Corps. His assignments took him from the Philippines to Germany and various other foreign and domestic bases in between. After retiring with the rank of colonel, Bob returned with his family to Oak Ridge, where he remained until his death. In retirement, Bob took to reading, and, in his final years, his daughters tried in vain to keep him supplied with enough books to occupy his ever-curious mind.

Bob was predeceased by his father, Ward Gilliam; mother, Dimple Brady; stepfather, Gordon Brady; first wife, Shirley Jackson Gilliam; son, Robert H. Gilliam Jr.; and second wife, Kay Gilliam.

Survivors include his daughter, Major Carrie Gilliam Baker, MD, of Alexandria, Va., as well as his daughter, Rebecca A. Gilliam, grandson, Griffin J. Woodlee, and son-in-law, James W. Woodlee, all of Takoma Park, Md. Bob also leaves behind his loyal canine companion, Fritz, the last and most unique of his five miniature schnauzers.

At 11 a.m. on October 24, a graveside memorial service was held at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, where Bob received full military honors.

Bob’s family wishes to thank the skilled and compassionate team at Covenant Hospice, who helped him die with dignity, at home, and among his loved ones.

In lieu of sending flowers, those wishing to honor Bob’s memory may make a donation in his name to Fisher House Foundation Inc., 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD, 20850-5168.

Weatherford Mortuary of Oak Ridge handled the arrangements. An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.