- Date Of Birth: December 4, 1933
- Date Of Death: May 10, 2014
- State: California
Mrs. Gilliam peacefully passed away at a local hospital. She is the widow of the late Cleon Gilliam. She is the mother of Michael Gilliam, Cleon Gilliam, Jr., Kevin Gilliam, Sr. and Brynda Thompson. Mrs. Gilliam was a member of Bethel Memorial A.M.E.
The World lost and Heaven gained a beautiful and kind soul with the peaceful passing of Athurlene Gilliam on May 10, 2014.
Known for her integrity and desire to put other’s needs before her own, Arthurlene was a caring and patient woman who always saw the best in everyone and selflessly encouraged others to pursue their dreams and endeavors. She was always generous, easy to talk to and had a very friendly personality.
Arthurlene was the daughter of the late Orenza and Elgie Allen. She was born in Pittsburg, Texas on December 4, 1933. She received her primary education in Centerpoint, Texas. In 1951, she moved to San Diego, California, where she attended San Diego State University. She enjoyed a twenty-six year career in education with the San Diego Unified School District before retiring early due to health challenges. She was also a longtime member of the SDSU Alumni Association.
During the early years, Arthurlene united with Bethel A.M.E.
Arthurlene was infinitely dedicated to her roles as a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was a lovely person with a variety of passions in life including, gardening, baking, politics and Saturday morning ‘treasure hunts’ at local yard sales and antique shops. She had an eye for beauty and she was exceptionally artistic and creative.
Arthurlene was preceded in death by her husband of forty-eight years, Cleon Gilliam, Sr. in 2004 and an infant daughter in 1957. She is survived by her children, Michael Steven Gilliam of Atlanta, Georgia, Cleon Gilliam, Jr., Kevin Gilliam and Brynda Thompson all of San Diego, California.
In addition, Arthurlene leaves behind one loving brother, A. D. Allen of Diana, Texas; three beautiful sisters, Dorothy (Don) Jones of Lubbock, Texas, Robbie Mitchell of Daingerfield, Texas and Ona Jean Tate of Pomona, California. Also mourning her passing are her beloved Aunt Nell Allen and her treasured sister-in-law, Mabel Gilliam both of San Diego, California. She delighted in her eighteen grandchildren, enjoyed her seven great-grandchildren and was blessed with two great-great grandchildren; as well as countless, but always special; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. All who knew her will know that she also leaves behind her ‘fuzzy friend’ and loyal companion,’Rusty”. She will be missed by all.
