Clessie Louise Gilliam (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Clessie “Kay” Gilliam, 95, of Bolivar, MO, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2016, at Citizens Memorial Health Care Facility in Bolivar, MO. Born October 24, 1921 in Springfield, MO to Charles Luther Coats and Mearl May Stewarts Coats. She was baptized as a young girl near her family home, and graduated from Pleasant Hope High School. She was married to James Roland Gilliam for 23 years until his sudden death in 1973. Becoming a widow at such a young age highlighted how independent Kay was. Her independent nature remained into her older years as she had a small school bus converted into camper so she could continue camping by herself even into her 80s. She would camp at the lake where she often enjoyed a good book by the water’s edge. Another activity Kay enjoyed was crafting, it was said that Kay, “could transform junk into beauty”. She worked for the Morrisville Post Office for 36 years and would often sub for various surrounding post offices as well. Kay is preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by her children, Barbara Mincks, Bolivar, MO, Ed Mitchell and his wife Margie of Fair Play, MO, Tom Mitchell and His wife Pam, Lakeland, FL, Jim Gilliam and His wife Linda, Springfield, MO; sister, Faye Ballard, Springfield, MO’ 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchild. Brother Joe, will conduct graveside services Friday, November 11, 2016 at the Robberson Prairie Cemetery North of Springfield, MO. Jon Shuck, Jason Shuck, Carter Minks, Blade Borne, Max Davolt and Ben Gilliam will act as pallbearers. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Butler funeral home of Bolivar, MO.
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